72 HOURS May 16, 2024

MAY 16

The return of

CARNIVAL SEASON

IT’S CARNIVAL AND CAR-SHOW SEASON

Springtime is fully here, and that means festival season is about to be in full bloom — music festivals, carnivals, car shows, fairs. In this week’s issue, we have compiled the spring and summer season schedule of such events happening throughout the area, so you can plan ahead or hang onto it for future reference, whether you’re craving a corndog or corn hole.

CATCH AN INTIMATE SHOW IN A BEAUTIFUL SETTING

Singer-songwriters Mark Mandeville and Raianne Richards will perform at Willow Oaks Craft Cider and Wine in Middletown on May 16. Doors open at 6 p.m. for the intimate performance. The husband and wife duo hails from Massachusetts and recently released the album “Making Promises.” This house concert is unique for its bucolic setting, offering craft cider and wine and what owners dub “cow TV,” just over yonder.

TAKE A WALK THROUGH HISTORY

The annual Maryland Iron Festival will take place on May 18 and 19 in the village of Catoctin Furnace in Thurmont, and during the morning of May 18 before the festivities begin, “walking artist” Ken Johnston will lead a hike from Catoctin Furnace to the top of Bob’s Hill, named for the 19th-century free Black farmer and collier Robert Patterson. Of note: This hike is billed as “very” (not “moderately”) difficult, so take that into consideration when making your plans, but also know that you will be in good hands with Johnston, who is based in Philadelphia and has led group walks through several historical sites in the region, tracing the footsteps of freedom seekers and those who assisted them in the Underground Railroad and Civil Rights movements. The Bob’s Hill Trail commemorates the Patterson family and other skilled ironworkers who labored at Catoctin Furnace. The hike starts at 8:45 a.m.

CALLING ALL AUTHORS IN MOUNT AIRY

The Town of Mount Airy would like to host a Local Author Day during a select Wednesday at an upcoming Mount Airy Farmers Market, which run from June 5 to Sept. 25. They seek authors who reside in the 21771 zip code. The author must have a physical book of their published work to be considered. The event is designed as a way for authors to get the word out about their books and sell their work. If interested, email your name, website, social media pages and list of books published to acollier@mountairymd.gov and ggallucciwhite@ mountairymd.gov.

ALIVE@FIVE CONTINUES WITH A COUNTRY DUO FROM VIRGINIA

The Alive@Five happy hour season continues May 16 with the Feehan Brothers live onstage, a country duo from Haymarket, Virginia. At the event, which runs from 5 to 8 p.m. at Carroll Creek Amphitheater, you can grab food from Sabor De Cuba and Tempo Di Pasta, beer from Brewer’s Alley, wine from Atomic 97 Beer & Wine, or cocktails from McClintock Distillery Co. and Tenth Ward Distilling Co. Entrance is $6 at the gate.

DID YOU KNOW?

You can browse 72 Hours and other special sections published by The NewsPost at issuu.com/fredericknews-post.

Meet Bob & Freddie. When it comes to local businesses, businesspeople and organizations in Frederick, they know best. Here is a personal interview with a 2023 Best of the Best winner or finalist about why they love what they do, helping those they serve and working in Frederick.

Law Office of Lena A. Clark

already established, you will want to do so immediately, or the decision will be left to the state.

Make your Documents Accessible

Summertime & Estate Planning!

Now that summer is near, many of us are enjoying the warm weather, planning vacations, and otherwise relaxing. While Estate Planning is a year-round duty, summer can be a great time to review and update your Estate Plan. As we plan vacations, whether to a nearby town or faraway countries, it is important to make sure your Estate Plan is in order before embarking on your adventures.

Creating your Estate Plan

The first step in updating your Estate Plan is to create one if you haven’t already done so. There are many pitfalls to using online legal documents and it is always advised to have an experienced Estate Planning lawyer guide you through this process. Wills, Trusts, Powers of Attorney, and Health Care Directives are essential documents everyone can benefit from having.

Updating your Estate Plan

If your Estate Plan is already created, it is recommended that you review it annually to make sure your choices are up to date. If there have been any life events or if a loved one can no longer serve for any role they have been appointed, changes need to be made. Laws are also ever-changing. If your documents are no longer up to date with current laws, changes should be made. If guardians for minor children are not

While safeguarding your Estate Plan is important, it is also important to make sure your Estate Planning documents are accessible should the worst happen. The loved ones you have appointed to serve in various roles in your Estate Plan should know where your information is located to help expedite the process if an unexpected situation arises.

Lead by Example

Family members may not have their own Estate Plans in order. Summer may be as good as it gets when finding opportunities to discuss this subject. Your family, whether near or far, will always look forward to a visit, but it can be challenging to find the perfect time to bring up Estate Planning during an otherwise easygoing weekend together.

The easiest way to discuss this topic is to lead by example and discuss how you have recently completed your own Estate Planning. This will give your loved ones the opportunity to ask questions. Seeing your effort can help them move past any hurdles that are keeping them from executing their own Estate Plan.

If you are a Maryland or Virginia resident and would like help with protecting your assets and loved ones (including your pets) in the event of death or disability, contact us at 301-696-0567 or self-schedule at lenaclarklegal.com.

Madrones offers a variety of steaks, pasta, seafood

One of the higher-end offerings in Frederick’s restaurant scene, Madrones has become a variety of things to different people.

The restaurant off of Md. 26 on the north side of the city may be known for their steaks, but, “You don’t need to come here just to order a steak dinner,” said kitchen manager Max Motley.

Open since 2012, the family-owned Madrones has served as the sister restaurant to Jasper’s Restaurant in Largo. Both strive to provide “high-end quality with a mid-tier price,” Motley said.

They are working on developing more vegan items for their menu and currently offer a portobello gnocchi.

While there are elements of a traditional steakhouse to the restaurant, the menu offers a wide variety of seafood, steak, pasta, burgers, salads and other items.

There are always sports playijng on the TVs at the bar, which features 24 beers on tap.

— Ryan Marshall

MADRONES

7810 Worman’s Mill Road, Frederick madrones.net 240-439-4010 facebook.com/MadronesRestaurant

Hours: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to midnight (brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) Saturday and 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. (brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) Sunday

Prices: Dinner menu appetizers run $13 to 16, salads $11 to 21, entrees $23 to $46

Kitchen manager Max Motley recommends: The beef tenderloin, dry scallops and jumbo shrimp meal, which features two beef filet medallions, three shrimp and five ounces of scallops served over mashed potatoes, with sautéed mushrooms, corn, garlic and spinach with spicy brown butter sauce ($35).

The beef tenderloin, dry scallops and jumbo shrimp dish is the signature dish of Madrones.

Staff photos by Katina Zentz

The interior space of of Madrones.

Alexandre Fischer will give a community talk on how Christian Science can help heal the divide in our world

BY CRYSTAL SCHELLE

Special to The News-Post

As a lawyer for many years, Alexandre Fischer has seen firsthand the world’s divisiveness. But as a practitioner of Christian Science, he believes there are ways to move past the hurt and heal.

Fischer will give a talk titled “Healing the Divide: How Spiritual Perception Brings Healing” on May 18 at the Evangelical Reformed United Church of Christ in Frederick. The talk is free and open to the public and is sponsored by the Frederick Christian Science Society.

Fischer, who lives in his native France with his wife and six children, was in Milan, Italy, getting ready for another lecture when he took the time to chat about his upcoming appearance in Frederick.

Some of today’s hot-button topics are politics and climate change, which often cause rifts. Fischer said sometimes people “forget that their family members are humans,” and these topics have been a cause for the breakup of a relationship.

“To me, the idea of Christian Science was what can we contribute to the local society, so we can do something to continue to build bridges,” he said. “It’s not so much about agreeing with the other person but having a sense of love

Christian Science was formed in 1879 by Mary Baker Eddy as a sect of Christianity. She was critically injured in 1866 and turned to God for healing. Members believe only God and the mind are ultimate reality and that sin and illness are illusions that can be overcome by prayer and faith.

“It’s more than about healings. It’s a way of life,” Fischer said. “It’s a deep understanding of God as something universal and infinite. It’s not something of a club but something we can all relate to.”

He explained Christian Science also has no clergy but is democratically run, and “it doesn’t take on any policy on social issues like abortion or those things. It leaves those questions that are important to the individual. So many people come to different conclusions.” In that way, it has a “true sense of finding brotherhood, even if we don’t agree.”

“HEALING THE DIVIDE: HOW SPIRITUAL PERCEPTION BRINGS HEALING”

WITH ALEXANDRE FISCHER

When: 2 p.m. May 18

Where: Community Room at the Evangelical Reformed United Church of Christ, 15 W. Church St., Frederick Tickets: Free

motions and learn how to practice and make mistakes,” he said.

When he embraced Christian Science, he said his first healing was a severe headache.

“I was really impressed, and if you allow it, it does work,” he said. “From that point on, I had more healings and a better understanding of how things work.”

and respect, where we can still have our differences, but we don’t throw stones at each other.”

Fischer was introduced to Christian Science through his grandmother, who had a physical challenge that couldn’t be healed by doctors. The doctors told her to try Christian Science, Fischer said. She healed and then became more involved in Christian Science.

Fischer grew up witnessing and receiving healings by his parents, although he admits now he didn’t always take it seriously at the time and thought of leaving it behind. But he eventually rediscovered the need for Christian Science in his life and learned that, as with all sciences, one must practice.

“Even if your dad is a great math teacher, you still have to go through the

He wants the audience to contemplate the idea of God — not of God sending evil or punishing you but something of infinite good and universal. “This is really for everyone and for helping the community.”

Crystal Schelle is a journalist whose work has been published locally, regionally and nationally. She enjoys trivia, cats and streaming movies.

Courtesy photo Alexandre Fischer

MUSIC Spring Fling: Songs for the season

Spring is the season of renewal and rejuvenation. Sure, it has taken its sweet time getting established this year, but I think it’s finally here.

The crack of the bat means baseball is underway. Kids are out playing on jungle gyms again. The sweet smell of freshly cut grass, lilacs and dogwoods are in the air. People are out and about with big smiles plastered on their faces. Carroll Creek, Culler Lake and Market Street are alive with activity. Folks begin to grab outside tables to enjoy a dinner downtown. The thwack of tennis balls and clack of bocce balls punctuate the daily hum of activity. Windows are open at night. Butterflies and robins have returned.

of a new day.

“I can see clearly now the rain is gone. I can see all obstacles in my way. Gone are the dark clouds that made me blind. It’s gonna be a bright, bright, bright sunshiny day.”

3. “IT’S A BEAUTIFUL MORNING”

And, as often is the case, the sound of music enhances this sweet atmosphere. I offer up here my top 10 picks for classic spring songs that will make you glad you made it through another tough winter.

1. “PIECES OF APRIL”

Three Dog Night, 1970

A slow and sweetly wistful song about remembering springtime and an early love.

“April gave us springtime, and the promise of the flowers, and the feeling that we both shared, and the love that we called ours.”

2. “I CAN SEE CLEARLY NOW”

Johnny Nash, 1972

This reggae-infused anthem is hopeful and optimistic. Problems can now be faced squarely in the brightness

The Rascals, 1968

Carefree and optimistic, the song perfectly captures all the possibilities of a beautiful spring day laid out before you.

“It’s a beautiful morning. I think I’ll go outside for awhile and smile.”

4. “SPRING VACATION”

Beach Boys, 2012

If you didn’t know the Beach Boys were still releasing songs in 2012, this lilting song with the unmistakable harmonies will likely leave you wanting more.

“Driving around, living the dream, I’m cruising the town, digging the scene. I’m not gonna stress, not gonna worry, doing our best, no need to hurry.”

5. “APRIL COME SHE WILL”

Simon & Garfunkel, 1966

A quiet, simple, acoustic song (with artistically-licensed grammar), comes in at under 2 minutes and reminds me of a child’s nursery rhyme.

“April come she will, May she will stay, June she’ll change her tune, July she will fly. August die she must.”

6. “MR. BLUE SKY”

Electric Light Orchestra, 1977

This bouncy, happy-go-lucky song features an electric guitar and robotic

Art Garfunkel, left, and Paul Simon serenade an audience

estimated close to one-half million in New York’s Central Park at a free concert Sept. 19, 1981.

The Beach Boys shown in London in November 1966.

voice. It always makes me smile.

“Sun is shinin’ in the sky. There ain’t a cloud in sight. It’s stopped raining. Everybody’s in the play.”

7. “SEASON SUITE: SPRING”

John Denver, 1972

This typical John Denver guitar song pulls me closer to nature and somehow makes me feel better about myself, too.

“Open up your eyes and see the brand new day. The clear blue sky and brightly shining sun.”

8. “A FATHER’S FIRST SPRING”

The Avett Brothers, 2012

This sweet, haunting, melancholy song proves that spring songs don’t always have to be peppy.

“Sweetest surrender of winter, she put up her flag. It is waving. The thunder of summer is rumbling in.”

9. “PRIMAVERA”

Carlos Santana, 1999

A Latin, syncopated song from this other-worldly guitar virtuoso pays homage to planet Earth at the best time of year.

“Como la Semilla, Lleva nueva vida,

Hay en esta primavera, Una nueva era.” 10. “APRIL”

Deep Purple, 1969

A 12-minute, mesmerizing rock opera with a sweeping guitar intro. Lyrics finally kick in at the 9-minute mark and are not kind to April or springtime.

“April is a cruel time, even though the sun may shine and world looks in the shade as it slowly comes away. Still falls the April rain.”

HONORABLE MENTIONS: Tori Amos’ “Spring Haze,” Coldplay’s “Up with Birds,” Dawn’s “Here Comes the Spring,” Donovan’s “The Lullaby of Spring,” Jack Hartmann’s “Springtime Dance,” Elvis Presley’s “Spring Fever,” Chris Rea’s “Fires of Spring,” Carly Simon’s “Spring is Here,” Frank Sinatra’s “It Might as Well Be Spring” and Donna Summer’s “Spring Affair.”

Gary Bennett is a longtime Frederick resident who spends his time hiking, biking, volunteering and providing childcare for grandchildren. He is married and retired from his career as a nonprofit marketing executive.

GARY BENNETT

Associated Press file photos

Singer-songwriters Mark Mandeville and Raianne Richards at Willow Oaks in Middletown

Singer-songwriters Mark Mandeville and Raianne Richards will be the featured performers at Willow Oaks Craft Cider and Wine in Middletown on May 16. Doors open at 6 p.m.

They will share their music, talk about their annual Massachusetts Walking Tour, and introduce their new album, “Making Promises.”

This will be a “house concert”-style listening room event. Guests can enjoy a beverage and “cow TV” from the beautiful tasting barn.

The artists are a married couple who entertain with their vocal harmonies, poetic lyrics and down-to-earth personae. They have contributed more than 17 albums within their first decade and toured consistently throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Accompanying themselves on guitar, mandolin, harmonica, ukulele, penny whistle, electric bass, tenor guitar and clarinet, their live performances are spiritually uplifting, balanced between serious songs and humorous commentary.

“Making Promises” (2024) is their fourth eponymous studio release. Much of the material, inspired by their recent marriage in 2021, reflects on themes of love, desires, perseverance and promises, with much of the music sparsely arranged as duets with upright bass accompaniment by longtime friend Zack Ciras.

Two compositions recorded between 2021 and 2023 include bandmates Doug Williamson (piano) and Peter Hart (pedal steel), with the majority recorded

in Northfield, Massachusetts, during December 2023.

In addition to writing and performing, the couple founded the Massachusetts Walking Tour, which is in its 14th year. The annual tour raises awareness of local greenspace throughout their home state, organizing daily public hikes and free community concerts each June.

They also serve as music educators for Blackstone Valley Music in Uxbridge Massachusetts, leading one-onone classes, yearly rock band camps for teens and community ukulele groups.

For more information, visit markandraianne.com.

Willow Oaks is at 6219 Harley Road in Middletown. See willowoakscraftcider.com for more information.

Photo by Mary Ann Perveiler

Singer-songwriters Mark Mandeville and Raianne Richards will perform an intimate concert at the beautiful Willow Oaks in Middletown.

‘Walking artist’ Ken Johnston will lead a hike to the site of a historic free Black community at Catoctin Furnace

During the Maryland Iron Festival, Philadelphia-based walking artist Ken Johnston will lead a hike in Thurmont from Catoctin Furnace to the top of Bob’s Hill, named for the 19th-century free Black farmer and collier Robert Patterson.

Patterson’s family owned a 25acre tract on the mountain and began a school for the African America children of the community. The Bob’s Hill Trail commemorates the Patterson family and other skilled ironworkers who labored at Catoctin Furnace.

Johnston will lead the interpretive hike on May 18 as part of the annual festival.

Johnston says he is eager to explore the deep power of memory

that Black Heritage trails like the one up to Bob’s Hill can evoke.

Since 2017, Johnston has traced the footsteps of freedom seekers and those who assisted them in the Underground Railroad and Civil Rights movements. On some of the walks covering large geographic areas up to 450 miles, Johnston said he “reflects on the hardships of slavery and the victory of freedom while meditating on the contour of the land where Black resistance and perseverance for justice and freedom occurred.”

Bob’s Hill Trail is a very difficult 3.8-mile out-and-back hike that takes about two hours to complete, though it’s not likely to be a problem for Johnston who, in 2018, completed

a 400-mile solo hike from Selma, Alabama, to Memphis, Tennessee, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination.

Since then, Johnston has walked from Harpers Ferry to Catoctin Furnace and onward to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Other journeys included walks tracing the footsteps of Harriet Tubman from the Eastern Shore of Maryland to Canada, and across Northern Ireland to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Belfast to Derry Civil Rights March.

Hikers who want to join Johnston on the Bob’s Hill Trail should meet at the upper Manor parking area of Cunningham Falls State Park,

6709 Cunningham Falls Park Road, Thurmont, by 8:45 a.m. May 18. Look for the Bob’s Hill Trail sign adjacent to the lot. It is required to wear good hiking shoes and have hiking poles, as the trail is very steep. Participants should also bring water and a snack if desired. The early start time will allow hikers to be back at the festival in time for lunch and the 1 p.m. iron pour.

The annual Maryland Iron Festival will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 18 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 19 in the village of Catoctin Furnace at Cunningham Falls State Park and Catoctin Mountain Park. For more information, email info@ catoctinfurnace.org.

Country roads and cars with a cause

BY ERIN JONES Special to The News-Post

The night was cool and windy, but the sounds of summer were in the air. In the At Home parking lot off Route 26 in Walkersville, the sounds of summer mean the collective roar of engines — 70, in fact — at the Golden Gears Club of Frederick’s first Cruise-in of the year.

This year is the club’s 51st year together, and two of the founding members still participate in the club.

The Cruise-Ins are free and open to the public and feature music, food trucks and, of course, vehicles of all varieties. The Cruise-ins attract attendees from other local car clubs as well and provide a platform for other car clubs to advertise their events.

“A lot of the car clubs try to work together,” Golden Gears president Jay Henley said.

The Cruise-Ins take place monthly on the second Saturday of the month starting in April and running through October. They bring together cars and drivers alike from the surrounding area.

What makes Frederick such a special place for such a vibrant automotive community? Henley says the city represents a crossroads of major roadways that easily connect drivers from other counties and other states, highways like 70, 15, 340 and 270. The county also borders several states, placing Frederick less than an hour from several state lines.

But the club has a deeper purpose than merely shared enjoyment of all things automotive. According to Henley, the club uses the events as an opportunity to give back to Frederick County. Henley estimates the club has donated the proceeds of their events to 70 organizations over the years, and 10 to 15 in just the past year alone. Three of the main organizations that benefit are the Vietnam Veterans of America, the Shangri-La Detachment of the Marine Corps, and the Monteview Assistant Rehab Center, which serves a number of veterans.

May 25 — Maryland Mayhem Car Show (7 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

700 Smith Ave., Westminster carrollcountyagcenter.com

June 1 — Rides for Slides (8 a.m. to 2 p.m.)

16829 Lappans Road, Williamsport

June 2 — The Original British Car Day (8 a.m. to 3 p.m.)

6800 Lily Pons Road, Adamstown mgtchesapeake.com

June 8 and second Saturdays through October — Brunswick Summer Cruise-In (9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.)

Roy Rogers, 28 Souder Road, Brunswick

June 8 and second Saturdays through October — Golden Gears Car Club of Frederick Cruise-in (5 to 8 p.m.)

At Home parking lot, 1811 Monocacy Blvd., Frederick goldengears.org

June 8 — Vintage Vehicles in the Valley (9 a.m. to 2 p.m.)

The prolific philanthropy of the Golden Gears Club is just one of the many examples of car clubs whose events go to benefit a good cause. Advertisements for car shows and cruise-ins will often include the name of an organization or cause that the event will benefit.

Proceeds from the Rides for Slides in Williamsport, for example, will go toward playground equipment for the Rehoboth Learning Center. The Road Knights of Hagerstown’s Classic Car Show will support their annual winter coat drive. Attendees of the Jefferson U.C.C Car and Truck Show are asked to bring a non-perishable food item for a local food bank. Maryland Auto Detailing’s Car, Truck, Jeep, and Motorcycle Show benefits St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Many will benefit local heroes in the community, like veterans organizations and volunteer fire departments.

From the avid car collector to the casual car admirer, Frederick and the surrounding area offers many

opportunities to take advantage of the summer weather, country roads and a shared love of many varieties of motor vehicles.

HIGHLIGHTS

May 17 and weekly through Sept. 23 — Cars and Cones (5 to 8 p.m.)

The Family Room, 6820 Olney Laytonsville Roadd, Laytonsville thefamilyroomlaytonsville.com

May 18 and first and third Saturdays through October Jimmie Cone Cruise Night

1312 S. Main St., Mount Airy, and 26420 Ridge Road, Damascus jimmiecone.com/cruise-night

May 19 — Brits By the Bay (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.)

Linganore Winecellars and Red Shedman Brewery 13601 Glissans Mill Road, Mount Airy tracltd.org

May 25 — St. Paul’s Car & Truck Show (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.)

301 Main St., Myersville stpaulsmyersville.org

West Green Street, Middletown mainstreetmiddletown.org/events

June 8 — Road Knights of Hagerstown Car Show (10 a.m. to 3p.m.)

North Hagerstown High School, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., Hagerstown

June 15 — Thurmont American Legion Car Show (noon to 4 p.m.)

Thurmont American Legion Post 168, 8 Park Lane, Thurmont

June 15 — New Life Church Car Show (4 to 8 p.m.)

12031 Hopewell Road, Hagerstown June 15 — Car & Truck Show (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.)

Jefferson Ruritan Community Center, 4603 B Lander Road, Jefferson jeffersonuccmd.org/car-show

June 16 — Cruise for Kidz Annual Father’s Day Autoshow (9 a.m. to 2 p.m.)

Shafer Park, 37 Park Drive, Boonsboro

June 21-23 — Frederick Cars and

Kregg Reynolds

GETAWAYS

Oxford: The literary ‘City of Spires’

BY ERIN JONES Special to The News-Post

If you look closely through the narrow stone alley of St. Mary’s Passage in Oxford, you might spy a bit of magic. Tucked above a wooden door beneath a tudor-style bay window are two grinning fauns, while a lamppost stands in the distance.

If the combination of faun and lamppost sounds familiar, that’s because that very passageway was well-trod by “Chronicles of Narnia” author C.S. Lewis during his tenure at Oxford. Tour guides will be quick to point that out, suggesting that St. Mary’s Passage may have served as inspiration to the author as he passed his days.

This little corner of the city is just one example of gems awaiting visitors to the City of Spires.

Oxford, England, is an academic city at heart, with Oxford University and its many colleges providing stunning architecture that transports travelers to another place and time. The city is rich in classical music, theater, history and literary tradition. Oxford is a book-lover’s dream, and not merely because walking its centuries-old stone pathways and charming streets feel like stepping into a storybook.

One of the most recognizable landmarks in the Oxford skyline is part of a library. Specifically, the stunning dome of the Radcliffe Camera is central to the city, but geographically and symbolically. Designed by James Gibbs in the mid-18th century, the Radcliffe Camera is a part of the Bodleian Library, the extensive system of libraries for Oxford University. The history and tradition associated with it is rich and beloved. Upon orientation, students still have to sign a pledge, promising not to light a flame within the library’s walls. The reference evokes a time of scholars studying by candlelight — and a time when texts were rare and a fire could mean the demise of the only copies.

Because the Bodleian is a functioning library for university students, much of it is off limits to visitors. However, the

Oxford, England, “City of Spires.”

library does offer guided tours that provide an inside look to selected areas.

The Bodleian Library is just the beginning for the bibliophile visiting Oxford. The city also has much to offer related to specific authors as well.

LITERARY HIGHLIGHTS

One of the authors most famously associated with Oxford is C.S. Lewis, who penned the “Chronicles of Narnia.” Magdalen College, where he taught, is available to tour. Past the impressive stonework cloisters, a pathway leads

XMAS MARKETS ON THE RHINE

to back gardens. Trails wind through streams and lush woodland. It’s difficult to believe such a place exists in the busy City Centre, but it’s not difficult to see how Lewis might have wandered those gardens and imagined Narnia.

His home, the Kilns is situated on the outskirts of Oxford City Centre and available for tours by appointment. The location is primarily a place of study for scholars-in-residence, so while it holds historic and literary significance, it is not a museum.

Another famous literary landmark in

Oxford is the pub The Eagle and Child. While the pub dates back to the 17th century, it has gained relatively more recent fame as the place where Lewis and fellow author and professor J.R.R. Tolkien famously met and held their writing group, the Inklings. The Eagle and Child is closed at the time of this writing, though plans are in the works to reopen the location. The pub has been bought by the Ellison Institute of Technology, but the new owners have expressed their dedication to honoring and preserving the history and heritage

Photos by Erin Jones

through their refurbishment.

Aside from The Eagle and Child, numerous tours are available that will take participants through both Lewis and Tolkien’s landmarks in the city. Visitors can see everything from the faun/lamppost and even the stoop from which Tolkien read “The Hobbit” to neighborhood children.

“Alice in Wonderland” is another classic work that emerged from Oxford. Alice Liddell’s father was the dean at Christ Church, and his colleague Charles Dodgson was a friend of the family, who would later write under the more famous pen name Lewis Carroll. Dodgson reportedly told the story first to Alice and her sisters while taking them on a picnic. Whereas the gardens at Magdalen call Narnia to mind, the meadows at Christ Church where young Alice once played are easily imagined as Wonderland. University Meadows and the Botanical Gardens are all believed to have inspired scenes and locations in the work.

Echoes of the story appear throughout the city in many forms. Oriel College holds a stained glass window depicting characters from “Alice in Wonderland” in its Lewis Carroll Room. Alice’s Shop on St. Aldate’s was once a sweet shop frequented by Alice Liddell. The Story Museum plays host to special events related to the story, the most grand of which is Alice Day, an annual event in which the entire city is transformed in costumes and decorations to celebrate the book and its beloved title character.

A more sober remnant of Liddell’s life story appears at Christ Church

Cathedral. Two of her three sons were killed in World War I, and they are memorialized alongside a staggering number of fallen colleagues. Throughout the colleges in Oxford, lists of names from each World War can be found etched in stone or wood, a sobering reminder of the toll violence had on the university.

For fans of the Harry Potter franchise, the city offers several tours of filming locations. For example, the Duke Humfrey’s reading room inside Bodleian Library is the rare books section shown in the films. Christ Church dining hall is the dining hall of Hogwarts. The franchise has left a significant imprint on the shopping scene, and many gift shops include merchandise from book and movie alike.

From books to history, there’s little doubt the city holds a particular academic charm. The city is steeped in tradition, and some of its best hidden gems and charms appear through a prolonged stay, particularly as a student.

There are a few options for visitors to experience the city that don’t involve a college application, however.

1. Take a short course. Oxford’s Continuing Education department offers a number of short courses on campus that vary in length, most around a week. Participants stay at the college, experience the expertise of a professor, eat in the dining hall, and have access to the student facilities. The topics in these courses range from writing, philosophy, architecture, music and many more.

2. Stay in the colleges. At certain times of the year, colleges make rooms available as a bed and breakfast. Guests

check in with the porters like a hotel, and the price usually includes breakfast in the dining hall. It’s important for American visitors not to envision these as the sparse dorm rooms found on many American campuses. Many of these rooms have en suite bathrooms, include lavish courtyard views, and come with all the amenities of a hotel. Rooms can be booked through University Rooms, which also facilitates researching which colleges offer the best experience.

Keble College is slightly more modern with Victorian architecture and is very close to Oxford Meadow. It is a little father of a walk into the city center, however. A college like Magdalen or Christ Church comes with the history and literary heritage, plus the lavish gardens and grounds.

3. Take the bus or train. If you must only pass through Oxford briefly, the city is on both bus and train. Several major

bus lines offer service from London, picking up at prominent tube stops like Victoria Station and Marble Arch and dropping off on High Street in Oxford. The train station connects to several major train lines on the British railway system.

Oxford is called the City of Spires because of the many spires that adorn the college buildings. To travel there is to experience another age and a dose of literary magic that will remain long after the visit.

Erin Jones is a freelance writer, former humanities teacher and owner of Galvanize & Grow Copywriting. She holds a BA in English from Hood College and an MA in English from the Bread Loaf School of English, through which she studied literature at Middlebury College and Oxford University. Learn more at erinjoneswriter.com, or follow her on Instagram @ErinJonesWriter.

The view through a stone window at Magdalen College.

Christ Church War Memorial Garden in Oxford.

“May Be” — through May 26 at NOMA Gallery, 437 N. Market St., Frederick. NOMA Gallery group show celebrating spring. 240-3679770, nomagalleryfrederick. com.

”Urban Vistas” — through May 26, Gallery 322, 322 N. Market St., Frederick. Gallery 322 artists capture the essence of city life, from bustling streets to quiet moments in parks and gardens. Noon to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays or by appointment. 240-815-7777 or gallery322.com.

”It’s Elemental My Dear” — through May 26, Eastside Artists’ Gallery, 313 E. Patrick St., Frederick. The elements of earth, water, wind and fire are the cornerstones of our featured artwork. The motherdaughter duo of Arden McElroy and Jill Hossler draw inspiration for their paintings from the rich local landscapes of central Maryland and the seascapes of their travels.

1-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. eastsidearts313@gmail.com.

Cumberland Valley Photographers Exhibit — through June 2, Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown. Various types of photography by artists in the Md., Va., Pa. and W.Va. region.

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301-739-5727 or wcmfa.org.

”Momentary Meditations” — through June 9, Riverworks Gallery at Locals Farm Market, 19929 Fisher Ave., Poolesville. Featuring photographs of the natural world that celebrate the extraordinary beauty all around us, “Momentary Mediations” hints at truths not easily put into words. Wib Middleton uses treescapes and ocean views to draw the viewer deep into thoughtful abstraction. Hours are 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday; 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday. 301-690-9337 or riverworksart.org/gallery-1.

”Painting From Life” — through June 30, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Watercolors,

by Stacy Lund Levy, painted from people and places encountered in the artist’s everyday life. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

”Explorations of Shadow and Light” — through June 30, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Joe Gerlak creates wall-hanging mixed-media pieces that function both as paintings and sculptures, and are informed by light and shadow as well as the subtle and fleeting occurrence of color, shape and form over time. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301-698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

”Lincoln’s Triad: A Visual Chronicle of History” — through June 30, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. This series of 3D work blends a cubistinspired geometric sensibility with elements of pop art in depicting the life of Abraham Lincoln. Works by Eunice Turner. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

African American of Excellence Exhibition — through June 30, FAC’s Hurwitz Gallery, 1 N. Market St., Frederick. A multi-media exhibit featuring original work from local artists and students, showcasing the contributions of African Americans in Frederick County. The exhibit honorees include Bernard Brown, Seaven Gordon, Mary Harris, Ted Luck, Joy Onley, Wendell Poindexter, and Gary Rollins. Exhibiting artists include Yemi Fagbohun, Tiffany Kowalsky, 88Visual (Brandon Chapman and De’von Wellesley), and 32 local grade school artists. Tuesday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on First Saturdays. Opening reception 1 to 3 p.m. May 18. 301-662-4190 or frederickartscouncil.org.

National Juried Exhibition — through July 7, Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick. Features works by

| Thursday, May 16, 2024 | 72 HOURS

frederickhistory.org.

Student Exhibition — May 16 to Sept. 13 at Montgomery College’s Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation Arts Center, 930 King St., Silver Spring. The exhibition features artworks made by Montgomery College art and design students over the past year and includes work from courses in 2D design, 3D design, ceramics, craft, drawing, graphic design, illustration, painting, photography, printmaking and sculpture. Opening reception from 5 to 7 p.m. May 16. 240567-1375, facebook.com/ MCVPA.

Dual Exhibit by Colleen Clapp and Rhonda J. Smith — May 31 through June 30, TAG/The Artists Gallery, 501 N. Market St., Frederick. Clapp’s “Nearing Equilibrium” demonstrates the balance created by neutral and colorful hues, using a cold wax medium. Smith’s “Antietam Encounter” interprets sights seen during walks on the hallowed, preserved battlefield.

artists from around the region and the nation in a variety of media. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301698-0656 or delaplaine.org.

”Ephemeral//Enduring” — through July 31, FAC Art Center, 5 E. Second St., Frederick. Explores the concept of time through diverse artistic expressions. Artworks range from the abstract and philosophical to the personal histories of the artists and everywhere in between. Juried and curated by Professor of Art at Frederick Community College, Wendell Poindexter. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. 301-6624190 or frederickartscouncil. org.

Summer Time Exhibit — through Sept. 6 at Crestwood Gallery Frederick Health Crestwood Building, 7211 Bank Court, Frederick.

Original artwork including oil, acrylic, photography, mixed media and wood carvings by Frederick artists. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. 240-2151460, acrestwood@frederick. health, frederickhealth.org/ crestwoodart.

”Brushes With History: Inspiring the Personality of Frederick” — through Dec. 14, Museum of Frederick County History/Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. Features the works of a few of the most notable artists who have worked in Frederick County, past and present. With beautiful paintings of the county’s landmarks and natural splendor, our story explores the ways in which the visual arts provided economic opportunity to individuals and communities. Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 301-663-1188 or

Opening reception 5 to 8 p.m. June 1. Noon to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. 301-228-9860 or theartistsgalleryfrederick.com. ”Art, Fashion, Symbol, Statement: Tattooing in America, 1960s to Today” — June 22 through Oct. 13, Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown. The exhibition explores the evolution of tattoos, particularly in the northeastern United States, from a mark of counter-cultural rebellion to one of the most popular forms of personal creative expression. Opening reception 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. June 20, meet the artists, $25 general public, $15 museum members, RSVP to 301-7395727 or drastelli@wcmfa.org. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. 301-739-5727 or wcmfa.org.

Courtesy photo

“Lincoln’s Triad: A Visual Chronicle of History” runs through June 30 at the Delaplaine Arts Center in downtown Frederick, featuring work by Eunice Turner.

Save me from these celebrity comics

Quick quiz for you. Which of these celebs have dipped or are dipping toes into comic-book publication?

Paul Dano.

Emilia Clarke.

Post Malone.

Rosario Dawson.

Whoopi Goldberg.

Rashida Jones.

Nicolas Cage.

Keanu Reeves. Anthony Bourdain.

Patton Oswalt.

Chuck D.

All of them. All of them have. And they’re just a drop in the bucket.

I’ve been reading a lot of celebrity-helmed comic books this month so you don’t have to. I’m not quite sure what it is about them that suddenly captured my imagination, to be honest. I have a semi-morbid fascination with A-, B- and C-listers who turn to our little cultural, artistic niche for fun and, more critically to them, profit.

Over the past few months, I’ve noticed what seemed like an uptick in the

number of actors and “influencers” (ugh, how I hate that term) with their names on books. I started paying slightly closer attention when Keanu Reeves announced his name would be on a 2021 series called “BRZRKR.” (Yes, that’s pronounced “berserker.”)

On the pages of that series, Reeves’ avatar appears as the central character, an immortal warrior.

When I started to dig more deeply, I realized celebrity-endorsed comics happen relatively frequently.

Many celebrity-helmed comics are tragically unimaginative and awful — not all of them, but enough are so embarrassingly bad you’d think publishers would put much more thought into their publication.

There are various reasons why celebrities turn to comics.

Sometimes, it’s out of love for the genre. For example, Nic Cage is a comics uber-geek. He named his son Kal-El, for God’s sake (Superman’s Kryptonian name, if you didn’t know).

Mostly, it’s to shill a product in hopes of leveraging a movie or TV series for the celebrity endorser.

Here’s the thing. You can always tell whether a celeb brings with them a degree of respect for this unique medium. Kevin Smith, for instance, or Patton Oswalt or Cage. These guys are comics geeks.

Some comics led by well-known individuals are good. “BRZRKR,” published by Boom! Studios, is very readable (a hat tip to the creative team, particularly writer Matt Kindt, for making it so). CM Punk, a World Wrestling Entertainment wrestler, and Kevin Smith, a writer and director, have worthwhile writing credits on several big-name comics like Spider-Man, Daredevil, Thor, Batman and Green Arrow.

And some celebrity-led or endorsed comics can even be groundbreaking.

“March,” by late U.S. Rep. John Lewis, a Georgia Democrat and civil rights leader, is a tribute to the power of the graphic narrative, in this case proving a compelling historical testament about Lewis’ early years in the American civil rights movement.

These are, sadly, the exceptions that prove the rule, counterpointed by the absolute dreck of celebrity publications that have no place on the shelves of any serious collectors. Or any shelves, period. These are mostly the ones where the celebrity lends their name and maybe a formative idea or two to a creative team, but otherwise has little to do with the finished product, other than some obligatory PR, if that.

Mostly, these ring a hollow, cynical bell that can be heard clearly by most readers. You can just tell when a comic script was generated from a failed pitch to some Hollywood studio executive.

Take, for example, Whoopi Goldberg’s menopausal superhero tale, “The Change,” or Emilia Clarke’s menstruation-powered superhero in “M.O.M.: Mother of Madness,” or Rashida Jones’ “Frenemy of the State,” or Rosario Dawson’s “OCT: Occult Crimes Task Force,” Tyrese Gibson’s “Mayhem,” or Arnold Schwarzenegger’s “The Governator” … and I could go on and on.

As good as “BRZRKR” is, yes, that

(See COMICS 17)

www.frederickchorale.org info@frederickchorale.org

CLIFF CUMBER

It’s CARNIVAL SEASON once again

BY CRYSTAL SCHELLE

Special to The News-Post

As days get longer, there’s just something about carnivals that signifies the unofficial start of summer.

New Windsor Fire Department is the first carnival of the season in the region, running from May 21 to 25. Carnivals run all summer and into September, with Blue Ridge Fire and Rescue in nearby Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, wrapping up the season about the same time as summer officially ends: Sept. 17 to 21.

However, most Frederick County natives will say The Great Frederick Fair is the official end of summer. This year, it runs from Sept. 13 to 21.

Sadly, Libertytown Volunteer Fire Co. will not be holding its carnival this year.

But here’s to eating a good meal, winning at bingo, taking home the stuffed animal prize, and seeing old friends this carnival season.

For information on each carnival’s hours, nightly entertainment and other details, visit the sponsoring organization’s website or Facebook page, or visit The News-Post’s online calendar at fredericknewspost.com/ calendar.

CARNIVALS

May 21-25: New Windsor Fire Department, 101 High St., New Windsor; nwfd10.org.

May 24 to June 1: The Great Boonsboro Fair hosted by the Boonsboro Rescue Co. Carnival, Shafer Park, Boonsboro; town.boonsboro.md.us/carnival or Great Boonsboro Carnival Facebook page.

May 24 to June 1: Gamber & Community Fire Co., 3838 Niner Road, Finksburg, at the carnival grounds; gambervfd.org.

May 28 to June 1: Thurmont Ambulance Co. carnival, Thurmont Event Complex, 13716 Strafford Drive, Thurmont; thurmonteventcomplex.com.

May 29 to June 1: Mother Seton School, 100 Creamery Road, Emmitsburg; mothersetonschool.org.

June 3-8: 4 County Lions Club Community Carnival, Fireman’s Carnival Grounds, 1008 Twin Arch Road, Mount Airy; 4countylions.org.

June 8-15: Sykesville-Freedom Fire Co., Sykesville; sykesvillefire.org.

June 10-15: Taneytown Volunteer Fire Co. #1 Inc., at the carnival grounds, 49 Memorial Drive, Taneytown; tvfc5.org.

June 12-15: Downsville Ruritan Williamsport Carnival, Byron Memorial Park, 11 Park Road, Williamsport.

June 17-22: Thurmont Firemens Carnival hosted by Guardian Hose Co. at Thurmont Carnival Grounds, 123 E. Main St., Thurmont; Follow the Guardian Hose Company on Facebook.

June 24-28: Smithsburg Community Volunteer Fire Co., carnival grounds; smithsburgvfc.net.

June 24-29: Reese Fire Co. Carnival, 1745 Baltimore Road, Westminster; reesevfc.org.

June 26-29: Harney Volunteer Fire Co., carnival grounds; harneyfire11.org.

June 26-29: Walkersville Volunteer Fire Co., carnival grounds; walkersvillefire.com.

July 1-5: Manchester Volunteer Fire Co.; 3297 York St., Manchester, manchestervfd.org.

July 7-12: Winfield Community Volunteer Fire Department, 1320 W. Old Liberty Road, Sykesville; winfieldvfd.org.

July 15-20: Urbana Volunteer Fire & Rescue Inc., carnival grounds, 3602 Urbana Pike, Urbana; urbanavfd. com.

July 22-27: Jefferson Ruritan Club, 4603-B Lander Road, Jefferson; jeffersonruritan.org.

July 29 to Aug. 8: Mount Airy Volunteer Fire Co., 1008 Twin Arch Road, Mount Airy; mavfc.org

Aug. 5-10: Clear Spring Volunteer Fire Co., CSVFC Carnival Grounds, 12323 Big Spring Road, Clear Spring. https://csvfc.org/

Aug. 5-10: Hampstead Fire Co. Carnival, Coppermine Pantherplex Parking Lot, Hampstead; hampsteadvfd.org.

Aug. 12-17: Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Co., at Mount Tabor Park, “home of the big wooden slide,” 13616 Motters Station Road, Rocky Ridge; rrvfc@rockyridgevfc. com.

Sept. 17-21: Blue Ridge Fire and Rescue at Red Run Park, 12143 Buchanan Trail E, Waynesboro, Pennsylvania; blueridgefirerescue.org

FESTIVALS

May 30 to June 1: Union Bridge Fire Co. Firemen’s Festival, Union Bridge Fire Co. carnival grounds, 8 W. Locust St., Union Bridge; ubfc8.org.

FAIRS

July 13-20: Washington County Ag Expo and Fair, 7313 Sharpsburg Pike, Boonsboro; agexpoandfair.org.

July 19-28: York State Fair, 334 Carlisle Ave., York, Pa.; yorkstatefair. com.

July 27 to Aug. 2: Carroll County 4-H & FFA Fair, 700 Agriculture Center, Westminster; carrollcountyfair.com.

Aug. 3-10: Berkeley County Youth Fair, 2419 Golf Course Road, Martinsburg, West Virginia, https://berkeleycountyyouthfair.org

Aug. 9-17: 75th Montgomery County Fair, 501 Perry Parkway, Gaithersburg; mcagfair. com.

Aug. 18-24: Jefferson County Fair, 1707 Old Leetown Pike, Kearneysville, West Virginia, jeffersoncountyfairwv.org

Aug. 22-25, Aug. 29 to Sept. 2, and Sept. 5-8: Maryland State Fair, 2200 York Road, Timonium; marylandstatefair.com.

Sept. 13-21: The Great Frederick Fair, Frederick Fairgrounds, 797 E. Patrick St., Frederick; thegreatfrederickfair.com.

Crystal Schelle is a journalist whose work has been published locally, regionally and nationally. She enjoys trivia, cats and streaming movies.

Blair Warfield, left, goes on the Vertigo ride with her children, Haddie Warfield, center, and Charli Warfield, at The Great Frederick Fair in 2023.

Staff file photos by Katina Zentz

Waylon Gladhill and Lakin Whalen enjoy a ride at The Great Frederick Fair in 2023.

Leo Tate plays a game during the Jefferson Carnival at the Jefferson Ruritan Center in 2023.

Persayus Summers, left, rides Willow as her sister, Cadence Kefauver, follows on Freckles in 2023.

‘Judicial Soup’ by Emmitsburg author highlights the need for justice reform

BY KARI A. MARTINDALE

Special to The News-Post

Shannon Bohrer’s decade-long process of writing, editing and finding a publisher for a true story about a federal law enforcement agent’s wrongful conviction is over. His novel “Judicial Soup” was released on May 7.

What is unique about this story is that it has the power to reach both supporters and critics of the justice system alike, to highlight the need for justice reform.

Bohrer, who lives in Emmitsburg, first met the subject of his story, Heath Thomas, in 2010, when Bohrer was called to serve as an expert witness after Thomas was accused of assault with a deadly weapon while off duty.

“I was in law enforcement for 42 years and have testified in court hundreds of times,” Bohrer said. “What I saw unfold, and what I have since learned through transcripts, interviews and case notes, was unlike anything I had experienced before.

“Due to a series of mistakes, conflicts and false information that melded together like ingredients in a soup, [Thomas] was found guilty and lost his career.”

Bohrer, himself a former Maryland state trooper from 1968 to 1995, was determined to tell the story.

“America is in need of police reform,” Bohrer said. “Cases seem to get pushed through if the police and prosecution believe the defendant is guilty, even if the evidence is insufficient. These cases are not abnormal, and yet we tend to ignore it. Over the years, we have heard of numerous people on Death Row who have had their cases overturned. Often, innocent people have spent decades incarcerated, which shocks our belief and trust in the criminal justice system. If we find injustice, misconduct and incompetence in death penalty cases, which are supposed to be examined and reviewed in almost immeasurable ways, how many problems like Thomas’ exist in lesser cases?”

Sometimes, Bohrer said, courts agree that a case should be retried, “but they keep [the prisoner] in jail. He’s in jail for 20 years, they say OK, he gets a new trial — but they keep him in jail. They should release [a prisoner] on bail once they’ve decided to do a retrial.”

Bohrer wanted to refer to similar cases throughout the manuscript but

said “there was just too much there. It was not hard; in fact, it was easy — too easy — to find cases of individuals who had been found guilty of crimes they did not commit and then spent years incarcerated, and these are just the cases that we know of.”

Because he wanted to illustrate the widespread problem of wrongful convictions, Bohrer inserted, at the end of each chapter, relevant cases in which an innocent person has been found guilty of a crime and was later exonerated. The cases expose a range of problems within the criminal justice system, he said, such as witness misidentification and prosecutorial misconduct.

“You think it’s an anomaly, but it’s not unique,” Bohrer said, rattling off cases. “If I took all the cases I found, you could make an encyclopedia. That’s the sad part.”

One of the biggest concerns Bohrer has is training — inconsistencies, from length of training to content to requirements, as well as who is allowed to serve as a training officer or to remain one after misconduct.

“I never realized a whole department could be corrupt. Sure, there are a lot of officers not a part of [misconduct], but they don’t say a thing [when they witness it].”

Even when officers are fired for misconduct, Bohrer often wonders why supervisors didn’t notice the officer was a problem previously. “Sometimes, we take all the apples out of the barrel and inspect them all and pull these three out, but we should look at the bad apples before they go into the barrel!”

These “bad apples” are a symptom of a problem, he said.

Of one officer, Bohrer said, “He had been on the job for 11 years. He should not have been hired, should have been fired year one. Every supervisor had a chance to fire him and never did. I would like to see more responsibility with [supervisor] training, [including] ethics and how you report another officer, instead of a culture of ‘you don’t want to rock the boat.’”

Referring to Derek Chauvin, the Minneapolis police officer who kneeled on George Floyd’s neck until Floyd died, Bohrer said, “As many complaints as he had, he never should have been a training officer.”

He said that while an officer should always be prepared to do bodily harm

When he learned that the manuscript was too long, he was able to pare it down to 120,000 words. Still, the first agent he pitched told him he’d have to get it down to 80,000 words — something Bohrer didn’t feel he could do if he wanted to highlight other relevant court cases that he was finding in his research. After dozens of revisions and help from developmental editor Katherine Pickett, Bohrer’s manuscript, which yo-yoed in length throughout the process, was accepted at the 120,000word length by Apprentice House Press in Baltimore.

if needed, [they] should treat suspects the same as the officer would want his own family members to be treated. “You have a number of officers out there who think you need to be aggressive,” he said, “but you don’t.”

Bohrer said law enforcement supervisors and anyone who withholds evidence should also be held accountable.

“If you have the authority, you should have the responsibility. Shouldn’t there be some responsibility if you intentionally withheld evidence?” he emphasized.

Still, Bohrer remains confident in the cases in which he testified throughout his career. In fact, one attorney was adamant not to have Bohrer testify, he said, and excluded Bohrer and they found the defendant guilty. Bohrer, who originally had locked up the defendant after the arrest when there was probable cause, found before the trial that a check stub did not match. Unwilling to let the defendant be convicted, Bohrer approached the defense attorney to tell him to file an appeal, which he did.

Bohrer believes there is a difference in police response between state troopers and city police.

One thing about being a trooper is, you’re by yourself a lot of the time. It’s not like the city police, where there are more officers around. If you’re working by yourself, you don’t have a herd mentality during police encounters.”

When Bohrer finished his first draft of “Judicial Soup,” it was 180,000 words.

“As an expert witness, Bohrer is the ideal author to tell it,” Pickett said of the story. “By including so many examples of other people who were also wrongfully convicted, he makes a compelling argument for judicial reform.”

When asked if his research changed his view of racial disparities, Bohrer said, “I always knew that we had bigoted police officers, but I thought they were an anomaly. It’s wrong to say you don’t notice it, but when you’re young, you don’t notice it. I knew that minorities were stopped more than [white people], but I never thought an officer would kneel on a man’s neck for nine minutes. That’s murder! When you consider the George Floyd case, why didn’t officers jump in to stop? Are they conditioned not to? Officers are ostracized for blowing the whistle. They think, ‘I’m not going to report anything!’”

Once when Bohrer gave a lecture at the Academy, he asked the officers about any felony stops they’d encountered. A young Black officer he didn’t recognize stood up. Bohrer learned that the officer hadn’t been law enforcement when he’d encountered a felony stop. Instead, the officer had been a young man stopped while driving his parents’ nice car through a wealthy community. Someone had called the police. The responding officer did a felony stop, which Bohrer describes as a highrisk traffic stop with multiple police vehicles surrounding the suspect’s car. “The officer with the best line of sight draws his gun and holds it down by his side,” Bohrer explained. “Turns out, he

Courtesy photo Shannon Bohrer

was stopped multiple times in that same community. Officer reaction shouldn’t be dependent on who the person is.”

For the cases at the end of each chapter, Bohrer decided he would not specify the race of the defendant. “It happens to white guys, too,” he said. He made this statement not to assert that there is no difference between how white and nonwhite citizens are treated by the police but to remind all citizens that they should not be complacent about the justice system just because they think “it’ll never happen to me.”

Megan LaRoux, a Frederick reviewer, wrote that the book “takes a deep dive into the matter of The United States v. Heath Patrick Thomas [but] could have just as easily been named ‘The United States v. Anyone USA.’”

This was Bohrer’s goal.

“I wanted the story to be relatable,” he said, “to show that if it can happen to a law enforcement agent experienced in navigating the justice system, then it could happen to anyone. I don’t think you should have to have the best attorney to find you not guilty of a thing you didn’t do.”

Bohrer recognizes America’s problematic civil rights history.

“Even when they freed the slaves, a Black woman couldn’t vote, and Black men were encouraged not to,” he said. He acknowledged that due to the history of racism, “if you’re Black and get stopped by the police, you run.” This shouldn’t be, he conveyed, a surprising response.

Bohrer said he’d told the first literary agent that he’d pitched, “‘I support both Black Lives Matter and Blue Lives Matter, because I believe in equity and equality.’ [The agent] said, ‘That’s not possible; you have to be one or the other.’ But it’s not a binary choice, if you support equality for all. … If the justice system would treat everyone with equality, it would go a long way.”

Although this is his debut novel, Bohrer has written law enforcement articles, reports and curriculum about the use of deadly force over the span of several decades, as well as more recent editorials in newspapers and the monthly column “Words from Winterbilt” for the Emmitsburg News-Journal.

His law enforcement articles were written after he retired from the police force and was working for the FBI as a firearms instructor

IF YOU GO

Learn more about the author at shannonbohrer.com. A book signing will be held at the Frederick Barnes & Noble from noon to 4 p.m. May 18.

and then later for the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commissions as range master and use of force administrator. He also wrote and taught the Deadly Force Management course for the FBI National Academy in 1996. Some of his articles appear in the appendix of “Judicial Soup.”

When asked if he thought America was making progress or if felt performative to him, Bohrer said, “I think we’re making progress, but we’re only looking in a few directions. If you don’t look at the prosecutors and the judicial system, you’re only fixing part of the vehicle. You have to prevent the justice department from putting innocent people in jail.

“With so many cases being reversed in our judicial system, it is easy to see why innocence programs have proliferated around the country,” he went on.

“While I applaud the investigators, reporters, attorneys and volunteers who give their time and energy to these cases, we also need to examine the problem from the front end of the system to prevent the back end from continually filling.”

Bohrer, who continues to contribute to the field of justice, is serving his first term on Frederick County’s Police Accountability Board.

He said his book “ends with a call to action for all of those in the criminal justice system to examine their perceptions, roles and responsibilities. Changes can only occur when we understand the problem and address the causes.”

“Judicial Soup” is Bohrer’s contribution to that national conversation.

Kari Martindale is a Pushcartnominated poet and spoken word artist who has performed at the White House, opened for a national conference and read at arts guilds across Maryland. She sits on the board of the Maryland Writers’ Association and is on the managing team of EC Poetry & Prose. Martindale is a veteran and a teaching artist for Armed Services Arts Partnership.

A scene from the April Cruise-in.

CRUISE-IN

(Continued from 9)

Pride (Beginning at 12:30 p.m)

MARC Train Station, 26 Water St., Frederick lambdacarclub.com/tri-valley

July 13 — Car Quest of Damascus Cruise-In (10 a.m. to 2p.m.)

Car Quest of Damascus, 9930 Main St., Damascus Aug. 10 — Car Show (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.)

1 Fireman Lane, Middletown Aug. 11 — Road Knights Car Club Inc. 65th Anniversary Car Show (10 a.m. — 3 p.m.)

3816 Petersville Road, Knoxville Aug. 17 — St. Jude Car and Truck

COMICS

(Continued from 13)

is now also “in discussions” about a film or animated series. (IMHO, in this specific case, this is OK. The world needs more Keanu Reeves.)

Honestly, I can’t help but wonder if the success of superhero movies, especially the Marvel Cinematic Universe, prompted these stars of varying ability to see comics as an entry point into the more lucrative fields of film and television. This is why the central characters in so many of them are merely analogs for the stars themselves. I suspect many of these publications were intended to capitalize on the gold rush that accompanied the box-office lightning of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

The lack of success in many of these enterprises should rightfully be discouraging. I personally deeply resent those who try to use an industry that’s so important to me and millions of others as a step stool to greater fame and larger bank accounts. Creative fields are awash in the

Show (8 a.m. to 3 p.m.)

Vigilant Activities Building 17701 Creamery Road, Emmitsburg vhc6.com/content/hall

Aug. 17 — Reese Volunteer Fire Department Car Show (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.)

1745 Baltimore Blvd., Westminster reesevfc.org

Aug. 24 — Car, Truck, Jeep, & Motorcycle Show, hosted by Maryland Auto Detailing (8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.)

Mount Pleasant Ruritan Club, 8101 Crum Road, Walkersville

Sept. 14 — Wings and Wheels Expo (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

18450 Showalter Road, Hagerstown hagerstownaviationmuseum.org/ events

already-rich-and-famous trying to milk as much capital from them as possible — look at podcasting, which is at saturation point with mundane celebrity pap that has pushed out earlier and more energizing shows, leaving us with bankrupt and homogeneous “content.”

I’d much rather see the privilege handed to a young, brilliant creator struggling to break through.

Are there benefits? Well, yes, of course. There’s an argument to be made that star power and name recognition may bring new readers into the fold. But the sheer number of misses does more to harm the field’s reputation than help it.

But, hey, if, I dunno, Natalie Dormer or Jack Black, say, happen to come across this column and need a comic-book artist for an idea they’ve been kicking around — I’m available.

Have a recommendation? Shoot me a note at cgcumber@gmail.com. You can follow along with the daily art struggle via Instagram or (for now) TikTok: @cgcumber.

Kregg Reynolds

Local Mentions

Local Mentions

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Best Bargain in the State!

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JOHNSVILLE RURITAN SPRING

SHOW

May 18 and 19, 2024

Saturday, May 18 - 10:00 Garden Tractor Pull

Sunday, May 19 - 1:00Music with Mike Kuster

2:00 - Cake and Pie Auction

3:00 - 50/50 Drawing

Kettle Fried chicken both days and Sandwiches, fries and drinks

BLESSING OF THE BIKES

Bush Creek Church of the Brethren will sponsor a special worship service on May 19, 2024 with Pastor Rod Fry bringing the morning message beginning at 10:30 am

Pastor Fry is the current pastor at the Ijamsville United Methodist Church He is a biker chaplain with the Bible Biker Institute

The Gospel Ridge Bluegrass Band will bring special music during the service

Following the worship everyone is invited to the parking lot for a Blessing of the Bikes to be provided by the Not Ashamed Biker Ministry and the Black Sheep Motorcycle Ministry

Everyone is invited to attend! All who ride, family and friends - and anyone interested – with or without a bike – are invited to join us for this meaningful beginning of the riding season!

Local Mentions

bring special music during the service Following the worship everyone is invited to the parking lot for a Blessing of the Bikes to be provided by the Not Ashamed Biker Ministry and the Black Sheep Motorcycle Ministry Everyone is invited to attend! All who ride, family and friends - and anyone interested – with or without a bike – are invited to join us for this meaningful beginning of the riding season! Bush Creek Church of the Brethren Pastor Dawn Weller 4821A Green Valley Road, Rt 75 South Monrovia, MD 21770 301-865-3013

CARRY-OUT DINNERS

At

New Midway Vol Fire Co

Saturday, May 18, 2024 Featuring: Roast Turkey w/ Dressing Or Fried Shrimp With:

Mashed Potatoes/ Gravy Green Beans Applesauce

Roll

Serving Time: 1-5 pm

Cost $13 00

CARRY-OUT DINNERS

At New Midway Vol Fire Co

Saturday, May 18, 2024 Featuring: Roast Turkey w/ Dressing Or Fried Shrimp With:

Mashed Potatoes/ Gravy Green Beans Applesauce

Roll

Serving Time: 1-5 pm

Cost $13 00

Hanging Baskets for Mom! Come pick out a lovely planter, basket, pot, etc Something for everyone! Many kinds & colors! Veggie plants for your garden Fresh tomatoes & asparagus 11434 Keymar Rd Woodsboro, MD 21798

Live Info: 240-439-9401

Local Mentions

JEFFERSON MD 250th CELEBRATION

FRI EVENING MAY 17, 2024 5:30 – 8:30PM JEFFERSON HISTORY MIXER

History Exhibits, Photos Displays & Presentations

5:30- Jefferson- Civil War 6:30- Bill Moran Knives 7:30 – Farming in Jefferson PARK AVENUE BAND 6-8:30PM FOOD TRUCKS 5:30-8:30pm

SATURDAY MAY 18, 2024

8:00AM TO 8:30PM 8am - 5K Run & Fun Run 8am-8pm – Food Served 9am-7pm – History Hall 9am-6pm – Childrens Activities (Petting Zoo, Pony rides, Moon Bounces, Clowns, Face Painting, Balloons, Kid’s Pedal Tractor Pull, Magic Show, & more) 9am-4pm – Open Houses 9am-5pm – Demonstrations (Cow Milking, Sheep Shear & Spinning, Butter Churn) 9am-5pm – Exhibitors 11am-TOWN PARADE 1pm & 4pm – Walking History Tour of Town 1pm-8:30pm – BANDS 5pm – Time Capsule History Souvenirs Dusk – Fireworks Finale Jefferson Ruritan Grounds 4603 Lander RD 21755 & Through the Town See Jefferson Ruritan Facebook or .ORG for More Details

SCENIC VIEW ORCHARDS

Our Own Homegrown Strawberries

Opening Saturday May 11th

Lettuce, Kale, Tomatoes

Spinach, Rhubarb, Apples

Potted Flowers & Planters

Honey, Jams, Jellies

Scenic View Orchards

16239 Sabillasville Rd

Sabillasville Md 21780 301-271-2149

Open 10:00-6:00 Daily scenicvieworchards com

Frederick Farmers Market 1215 West Patrick St

Every Saturday 10:00-1:00

Local Mentions Services Services

VEGETABLE & FLOWER PLANTS FOR GARDEN BEDS

Hanging baskets - $16

Knock-Out Roses - potted, full of blooms & beautiful!

Lowest prices w/a Fresh supply

Come see Miss Lucy! Only at DR Virts 800 Petersville Rd

Brunswick, Md, 301-969-6115

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Weekly BINGO

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Thurmont Event Complex 13716 Strafford Drive Thurmont, Maryland Thurmont Community Ambulance Service, Inc

Yard Sales

HUGE YARD SALE

at Fred Cty Humane Society

May 17 & 18, 9a to 2p

Spots Avail to Rent for $10 donation 1786 N Market Street Frederick, MD 301-694-8300

Accepting donations

YARD SALE

Saturday, June 1, 8 am- 2 pm Woodsboro Lutheran Church 101 S Main Street Rain or Shine For more info, call 301-639-1206

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We fill any size pool Call Nolan Hubble 240-315-1762

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BY THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

What to stream this week

NEW MOVIES TO STREAM

— Cord Jefferson’s Oscar-winning “American Fiction,” one of the most celebrated directorial debuts in recent years, lands on Prime Video on Tuesday. Jeffrey Wright stars at Thelonious “Monk” Ellison, a frustrated novelist who, in a drunken fit of rage, pens a satirical book parodying what’s popular, only it becomes a sensation. Sterling K. Brown, John Ortiz, Erika Alexander, Issa Rae and Leslie Uggams round out a terrific ensemble. In her review, AP Film Writer Lindsey Bahr wrote that “American Fiction” “is immensely watchable, staged without flash or pretention, that relies on its sharp script and talented and charismatic actors to carry the audience through.”

— A trio of new films coming to Netflix covers a wide gamut. The animated “Thelma the Unicorn” (streaming Friday, May 17) is about a small pony painted to pose as a unicorn, voiced by the Grammy-winning singer-guitarist Brittany Howard. Yance Ford’s “Power” (streaming Friday, May 17) examines the roots of American policing and its evolution over time. And “Madame Web,” the much-maligned Marvel entry in Sony’s Spider-Man universe of films, lands Tuesday on Netflix. Dakota Johnson stars in what Bahr wrote in her review “feels like the stitched-together product of a bunch of people who weren’t actually collaborating.”

— The odds are more in the favor of “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes,” which begins streaming Tuesday on Starz after a successful theatrical run last November. It’s a prequel to the Hunger Games, themselves. The games are in their 10th year and ratings are flagging, but a few twists and turns will catapult them to Panem’s center stage. The origin story is also for the man who will become President Coriolanus Snow, played by Donald Sutherland in the first four films. Here, the young, ambitious Snow is played by Tom Blythe, whose performance lifts the movie. In my review, I wrote: “Just as in the ‘Hunger Games’ films led by Jennifer Lawrence’s Katniss Everdeen, the new one proves how much you can sacrifice in story when you’ve got a thrilling young performer commanding the screen.”

— AP Film Writer Jake Coyle

NEW SHOWS TO STREAM

— Seasons one and two of “Bridgerton” followed the first two novels in the series by Julia Quinn. Taking place in Regency-era London, each book is about the love story of one Bridgerton family member. Season three, however, skips to book No. 4 with the friends to lovers’ courtship of Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton) and Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan.) Netflix has broken the season into two parts with the first batch of new episodes premiering Thursday.

— Sophie Rundle of “Peaky Blinders” stars in “After the Flood,” as a police officer in a UK town that is devastated by a flood. The six-episode series is both a thriller and a red flag about the consequences of climate change. The series premieres Monday on BritBox.

— Josh Brolin leads “Outer Range” on Prime Video, a Western about neighboring ranchers battling for land that quickly turns trippy with time-travel. Lili Taylor, Tom Pelphrey,

Imogen Poots and Shaun Sipos also star. All seven episodes of season two drop on Thursday.

— André Holland (“Moonlight”) plays Black Panther founder Huey P. Newton in the new series “The Big Cigar” for Apple TV+. It dives into the true story of how in 1974, Holland was being pursued by the FBI for murder and assault charges. He got help from a movie producer named Bert Schneider to escape to Cuba. The six-episode series debuts Friday, May 17.

— The popular food competition series “Ciao House” returns for its second season on Sunday, May 19 on Food Network. On the show, 12 chefs live together in a Tuscan village and compete in various culinary challenges. The contestants form alliances and rivalries. In the end, the winner gets to train under master Italian chefs. “Iron Chef” champion Alex Guarnaschelli and Gabe Bertaccini return as hosts.

— Alicia Rancilio

Murray Close/Lionsgate via AP

Tom Blyth, left, and Rachel Zegler in a scene from “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.”

Netflix via AP

Thelma, voiced by Brittany Howard, in a scene from “Thelma The Unicorn.”

Thursday May 16

CLASSES

Brushes with History: Inspiring the Personality of Frederick — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Museum of Frederick County History/Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. Features the works of a few of the most notable artists who have worked in Frederick County. With beautiful paintings of the county’s landmarks and natural splendor, our story explores the ways in which the visual arts provided economic opportunity to individuals and communities. As we admire their talents captured on canvas, porcelain, metalware, and other media, we celebrate the role these artists have played in shaping our communities both past and present. $12, $10, $8. 301-663-1188. tonya@frederickhistory.org. frederickhistory.org.

Totally Teen Time: Marker Illustration Artist Talk — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Learn marker illustration techniques from local and professional artist Aster Thomas who will share tips and techniques for making incredible art with art markers! This program is recommended for teens in grades 6 through 12. 301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Frederick Collage Collective — 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at FAC Art Center, 5 E. Second St., Frederick. Drop-in group for all levels. Materials provided. Facilitated by Black Cat Studios. $5 donation. 301-662-4190. artcenter@frederickartscouncil.org. frederickartscouncil.org.

Frederick County Civil War Roundtable and Presentation — 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at National Museum of Civil War Medicine, 48 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Sarah Key Bierle presents “The New Market Campaign.” How did the armies get to New Market for the battle on May 15, 1864? What were the objectives of the campaign? This presentation delves deeper in the New Market Campaign and reexamines its challenges and outcomes beyond the famous battle. free for members, $5 suggested fee for

non-members. gldyson@comcast.net. frederickcountycivilwarrt.org.

Maryland Whiskey 101 — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at McClintock Distilling, 35 S. Carroll St., Frederick. A beginner’s guide to everyone’s favorite nutty, oaky, and smoky spirit — whiskey! Learn how whiskey is made, the different types, and the history of the barrel aging process. This class will have a special focus on Maryland Rye Whiskey and what makes it so special. $34. 301-624-2727. lifelonglearning@frederick.edu. frederick.augusoft.net.

ETCETERA

Duplicate Bridge Games — noon to 4 p.m. at Church of the Transfiguration, 6909 Maryland Ave., Frederick. Looking for a competitive mind sport? Frederick Bridge Club duplicate games allow you to hone your skills. No membership requirements. If you need a partner, call 240-344-4041 or email lffutrell@ yahoo.com. For general information, call 301676-5656 or email sdobran@comcast.net. $8. 301-676-5656. sdobran@comcast.net. bridgewebs.com/frederick.

The Biggest Ideas in the Universe with Sean Carroll — 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Exploration Commons, 50 E. Main St., Westminster. For adults. Sean Carroll is creating a profoundly new approach to sharing physics with a broad audience, one that goes beyond analogies to show how physicists really think. In his latest book, “Quanta and Fields,” Carroll explains measurement and entanglement before explaining how the world is really made of fields. You will finally understand why matter is solid, why there is antimatter, where the sizes of atoms come from, and why the predictions of quantum field theory are so spectacularly successful. Presented by A Likely Story Bookstore and Carroll County Public Library. Books will be available for purchase and a book signing will follow the talk. Registration required. Visit site for details. 443-293-3000. ask@carr.org. ccpl.librarymarket.com.

MUSIC

Alive@Five Happy Hour Concert Series:

Feehan Brothers — 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Carroll Creek Amphitheater, Frederick. Modern country. Craft beverages and food available by local breweries, distilleries and food trucks. 21 and older, with ID. Concert series continues through Oct. 3. $6 per person. 301-698-8118. downtownfrederick.org.

Live Jazz at the Cocktail Lab — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Tenth Ward Distilling Co., 55 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Get swanky with us every Thursday night for live jazz and your favorite craft cocktails. 21 and older. 301-233-4817. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. tenthwarddistilling.com.

Friday May 17

CLASSES

Brushes with History: Inspiring the Personality of Frederick — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Museum of Frederick County History/Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. Features the works of a few of the most notable artists who have worked in Frederick County. With beautiful paintings of the county’s landmarks and natural splendor, our story explores the ways in which the visual arts provided economic opportunity to individuals and communities. As we admire their talents captured on canvas, porcelain, metalware, and other media, we celebrate the role these artists have played in shaping our communities both past and present. $12, $10, $8. 301-663-1188. tonya@frederickhistory.org. frederickhistory.org.

History of Furniture Making and Makers in the Middletown Valley — 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Myersville Fire Hall, 301 Main St., Myersville. The Myersville-Wolfsville Area Historical Society and Heritage Frederick will present a PowerPoint program on the 175-year history of furniture manufacturing in the Middletown Valley. Jody Brumage, archivist at Heritage Frederick, will trace the works and designs of well-known furniture makers, including Frederick and C.C. Stottlemyer, Kellsie Gaver, James Aaron Grove, James Wesley Morgan,

and Calvin Gladhill. bobsavitt@aol.com.

ETCETERA

HHS Mobile Health Unit, Outreach Team and Program Staff Visit — 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Tasker’s Chance Park, 1175 Key Parkway, Frederick. Program staff will be bringing health services, food distribution, and access to learn more about other HHS programs (like energy assistance) to various neighborhoods throughout the Frederick community. Food distribution begins at noon, while supplies last. 240-409-9005. mgrogan@cityoffrederickmd.gov. cityoffrederickmd.gov.

Monthly Creative Cafe — 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at FAC Art Center, 5 E. Second St., Frederick. Join us for an evening of artistic expression and celebration as we shine a spotlight on local artists in honor of Black History Month. This event will feature a powerful spoken word performance by Lanai Monroe. All are welcome to attend this free event.  304-707-2240. vaira.evangeline@gmail.com. transformativeartsproject.org.

Spirit Reunion Channeling Event — 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Canapes Catering, 550 Highland St., Suite100, Frederick. Join Sharon for this event that will give you a new perspective, a peaceful heart and a place for healing. If you have lost someone you love then come share this evening. Sharon’s unique gift and presentation reveals that connections do exist beyond the physical world. RSVP required. $75, includes dinner, $55 event only, no dinner. 240-772-1273. authorsharonprice@gmail.com. authorsharonprice.com.

FAMILY

World Migratory Bird Day Activities — 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Drop by the library for a variety of bird-themed activities to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day. 301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

FESTIVALS

Jefferson’s 250th Celebration Friday Night History Mixer — 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Jefferson Ruritan Club, 4603B Lander Road, Jefferson. History exhibits, photos, displays and presentations — Jefferson in the Civil War at 5:30 p.m., Bill Moran’s Damascus knives at 6:30 p.m., farming in Jefferson at 7:30 p.m.. Park Avenue Band playing from 6 to 8:30 p.m.; food trucks 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. 301-662-3643. rdhigdon@comcast.net. jeffersonruritan.org.

MUSIC

Morgan’s Coffeehouse: Shannon Leigh and The Good Bygones — 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Morgan Chapel United Methodist Church, 6750 Woodbine Road, Woodbine. Featuring Shannon Leigh and The Good Bygones. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and music begins at 7 p.m. Food, snacks, desserts, coffee, tea and sodas available for purchase. Donations encouraged. Family friendly. 410-970-2485. coffeehouse@morganchapel. church. morganchapel.church/coffeehouse.

Mike Kuster at Bassett’s Restaurant — 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Bassett’s Restaurant, 19950 Fisher Ave., Poolesville. IMN’s Male Country Artist of the Year, Mike Kuster returns to Bassett’s for an evening of solo, acoustic traditional country music! 301-662-3355. mike@mikekuster.net. bassettsrestaurant.net.

Live Music at the Cocktail Lab — 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Tenth Ward Distilling Co., 55 E.

Patrick St., Frederick. Every Friday in the Cocktail Lab we’ll be servin’ up our deliciously wild concoctions and some sweet tunes to get your weekend started off right. 21 and older. 301-233-4817. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. tenthwarddistilling.com.

THEATER

“Diana The Musical” — 6 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre, 5 Willowdale Drive, Frederick. It’s 1981 and the world is hungry for a royal wedding — but is the 20-year-old bride prepared for what comes after? Following her storybook union, Princess Diana faces a distant husband, an unmovable monarchy, and overwhelming media scrutiny. But her modern perspective and remarkable compassion galvanizes a nation, even as it threatens the royal family’s hold on England. Prices vary. 301-662-6600. wob@wayoffbroadway.com. wayoffbroadway.com.

“The Prom” — 8 p.m. at Other Voices Theatre, 244 S Jefferson St., Frederick. “The Prom” follows four Broadway actors lamenting their days of fame, as they travel to the conservative town of Edgewater, Indiana, to help a lesbian student banned from bringing her girlfriend to high school prom. $18.50 to $25. 301-662-3722. administration@othervoicestheatre.org.

Oh, Crit! A D&D Improv Crew at MET Comedy Night — 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Maryland Ensemble Theatre, 31 W. Patrick St., Frederick. Improv comedy fused with

Dungeons & Dragons! Join us as we embark on an adventure of twists and turns, bizarre characters, and occasional epic failure … all with the help from you and the whim of an unforgiving 20-sided die. $15. 301-694-4744. zcallis@marylandensemble.org. marylandensemble.org.

Saturday May 18 CLASSES

Brushes with History: Inspiring the Personality of Frederick — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Museum of Frederick County History/Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. Features the works of a few of the most notable artists who have worked in Frederick County. With beautiful paintings of the county’s landmarks and natural splendor, our story explores the ways in which the visual arts provided economic opportunity to individuals and communities. As we admire their talents captured on canvas, porcelain, metalware, and other media, we celebrate the role these artists have played in shaping our communities both past and present.

$12, $10, $8. 301-663-1188. tonya@frederickhistory.org. frederickhistory.org.

A Taste of Asia: Korean Short Ribs, Red Curry Mussels, and Clams with Lemongrass Sauce — 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Frederick Community College. Conference Center, Room E125, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. Intro to various Asian cuisines from China, Japan, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Focus will be on traditional dishes with new flavors but using standard sauce ingredients. Chef Woo Can will demonstrate how easy and simple these Asian dishes are to make. Hearty meals that taste good using ingredients from your local markets specifically “H Mart” in Frederick. Pre-registration required. $42. 301-624-2727. lifelonglearning@frederick.edu. frederick.augusoft.net.

“Healing the Divide: How spiritual perception brings healing” — 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Evangelical Reformed United Church of Christ (ERUCC), 15 W. Church St. (lower level), Frederick. Talk on Christian Science by Alex Fischer, a Christian Science practitioner and member of the Christian Science Board of Lectureship. Understanding more clearly our relationship with God, infinite good, ends fear and leads the way forward. 301-662-2300. cssocietyfrederickmd@gmail.com.

ETCETERA

Myersville Farmers Market — 9 a.m. to noon at Municipal parking lot, 301 Main St., Myersville. Saturdays through Oct. 26. myersvillefarmersmarket.com.

Seedling Swap and Potting Demonstration — 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Myersville Community Library, 8 Harp Place, Myersville. Check out our new seed library and bring along your own seeds, seedlings, and/or plant cuttings to exchange with fellow gardeners. This event will also include a potting demonstration with Victoria Thompson, of the Myersville Parks and Recreation Committee. 301-600-8350. rkurtz@frederickcountymd. gov. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Beyond the Garden Gates Tour — 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at 11 gardens in downtown, Frederick. Self-guided tour of 11 gardens in downtown Frederick and Baker Park. Gardens include Historic Mount Olivet, South Frederick Arboretum of the ESL, Federated Charities, Record Street Home, and several private home gardens. Day of tickets can be purchased at City Hall, the tour hospitality center.  $25 advance, $30 day of tour. 301-600-2841. celebratefrederick.com.

Tour the Schifferstadt Architectural Museum — 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Schifferstadt Architectural Museum, 1110 Rosemont Ave., Frederick. Tour Frederick’s oldest surviving building with a knowledgeable guide. Now 266 years old, it was the home of Elias and Albertina Brunner, German immigrants who were part of the great migration centuries ago of refugees from oppressed and war ravaged Europe. The home contains the only surviving example of the German five-plate stove that provided clean, safe, energy-efficient home heating.

$8. 301-456-4912. boycerensberger@gmail.com. fredericklandmarks.org.

Ghost Tours of Historic Frederick — 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Brewer’s Alley Restaurant and Brewery, 124 N. Market St., Frederick. Journey through Frederick’s gruesome and bloody past. Nearly 300 years of war, executions and revenge. True documented stories of the paranormal with Maryland’s oldest operating Ghost Tour. Uncover political savvy and defiant citizens, patriots from the Revolutionary War, beckoning soldiers from the Civil War. Reservations recommended. $16. 301-668-8922. info@marylandghosttours.com. marylandghosttours.com.

FAMILY

Jefferson Ruritan 5K and 1M Fun Run — 8 a.m. at Jefferson Ruritan for 5K; Valley Elementary School for Fun Run, 4603 Lander Road, Jefferson. Celebrate 250 years as a community! This is a chip-timed 5K road race that follows a loop through the town of Jefferson. Also, a one-mile fun run that starts at the same time and begins at Valley Elementary School. After the race, enjoy refreshments and the spring weather! This family friendly event benefits the mission of the Jefferson Ruritan Club.

$45 5K/$6 Fun run. 301-471-2901. lhickman26@comcast.net. unsignup.com/Race/MD/Jefferson/ JeffersonRuritan5KFunRun.

FESTIVALS

Maryland Iron Festival — 12 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. at Maryland Iron Festival (parking), 6709 Cunningham Falls Park Road, Thurmont. The Catoctin Furnace Historical Society will present the sixth annual Maryland Iron Festival during the weekend of May 18 and 19 in historic Catoctin Furnace village. Blacksmithing; a live iron pour at 1 p.m. Saturday; tours of historic Harriet Chapel; “Feats of Strength” games and challenges; plaster casting activities; an artist and maker market; children’s activities; unique handmade items for sale; activities from the Frederick County Public Libraries and more. 443-463-6437. ecomer@catoctinfurnace.org. catoctinfurnace.org.

Jefferson’s 250th Celebration — 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Jefferson Ruritan Grounds and Town of Jefferson, 4603 Lander Road, Jefferson. This small, friendly, unincorporated town hosts a full day of activities concluding with a large fireworks display around 8:30 p.m. There will be a 5K Run and Children’s Fun Run starting at 8 a.m.; food served all day; town parade at 11 a.m.; history hall presentations and displays all day; pony rides, petting zoo, moon bounces, clowns, magic show, face painting, and more; different bands all afternoon and evening; demonstrations (sheep shearing, cow milking, wheat winnowing, butter churn) and crafters all day; walking history tours of the town; souvenirs; time capsule; and so much more.  bballforus@comcast.net.

jeffersonruritan.org.

Johnsville Spring Show — 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 11106 Green Valley Road, 11106 Green Valley Road, Union Bridge. Garden Tractor Pull on May 18, music by Mike Kuster on May 19, plus a cake and pie auction. Kettle fried chicken both days.

Free Shred It Event — 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Dale Clabaugh’s State Farm Insurance Agency, 23 E. Frederick St., Walkersville. This event is sponsored by Dale Clabaugh, State Farm Insurance. The event is free, but donations are welcomed. All donations will benefit the Salvation Army’s efforts to provide camp and Bible School for local children. This event is being held as part of Walkersville Days.   240-994-1176.

karen.cochran1946@gmail.com.

Gaithersburg Book Festival — 10 a.m. to 6

p.m. at Activity Center at Bohrer Park, 506 S. Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg. A celebration of great books and great writing, one of the nation’s top literary events. Features more than 100 best-selling and award-winning authors who will participate in talks and panel discussions. See website for participating authors. Interactive writing workshops, a Children’s Village, book sales, author signings and more. Admission and shuttles from Shady Grove Metro and Montgomery County Fairgrounds are free.

301-258-6350. gbf@gaithersburgmd.gov. gaithersburgbookfestival.org.

HEALTH

Health and Wellness Seminar — 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Mt. Carmel United Methodist Church, 9411 Baltimore Road, Frederick. The church’s Care Ministry Team hosts a community-based event to inspire others to invest in a joyfilled, healthy lifestyle. Presentations will be made by professional speakers about stroke awareness and heart health, Frederick Health Hospice among others. Blood pressure screenings will be available. Light refreshments will be served. 301 662-1303. office@hopemtcarmel.org. hopemtcarmel.org.

MUSIC

The Frederick Chorale Salutes the Armed Forces — 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Baker Park Bandshell, 21 N. Bentz St., Frederick. Join The Frederick Chorale and The Army Field Band’s HooahCappella on Armed Forces Day to honor service members and veterans. Groups will perform as a combined choir

and separately with songs ranging from “Shenandoah” by James Erb and “The Tree of Peace” by Gwyneth Walker. Heidi Ackerman is the conductor of the Frederick Chorale and an Army veteran. She is very excited to be performing with soldiers from the U.S. Army Field Band at Baker Park to honor service members and veterans with a free concert. She had the honor of serving in the Army Field Band for 7 years, touring the country performing for our nation’s veterans. She’s delighted to bring her Army unit to Frederick and to have Mayor Michael O’Connor as emcee. Free. Donations welcome. info@frederickchorale.org 301-514-4524. frederickchorale.org

THEATER

“Diana The Musical” — 6 p.m. at Way Off Broadway Dinner Theatre, 5 Willowdale Drive, Frederick. It’s 1981 and the world is hungry for a royal wedding — but is the 20-year-old bride prepared for what comes after? Following her storybook union, Princess Diana faces a distant husband, an unmovable monarchy, and overwhelming media scrutiny. But her modern perspective and remarkable compassion galvanizes a nation, even as it threatens the royal family’s hold on England. Prices vary. 301-662-6600. wob@wayoffbroadway.com. wayoffbroadway.com.

“The Prom” — 8 p.m. at Other Voices Theatre, 244 S Jefferson St., Frederick. “The Prom” follows four Broadway actors lamenting their days of fame, as they travel to the conservative town of Edgewater, Indiana, to help a

lesbian student banned from bringing her girlfriend to high school prom. $18.50 to $25. 301-662-3722. administration@othervoicestheatre.org. Thurmont Main Street Farmers Market — 9 a.m. to noon at Thurmont Community Park, 21 Frederick Road, Thurmont. Every Saturday through Sept. 28. Home-made, home-grown. One of the largest farmers markets in Frederick County.  240-626-9980. vgrinder@thurmontstaff.com. thurmontmainstreet.com.

Sunday May 19 CLASSES

Transitioning into Retirement — 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Join local insurance expert Jean-Marie Leonard, with New York Life Insurance, to learn more about all the details of retirement you may not have considered. She will be sharing her expertise on how to prepare through insurance and financial planning for transitioning into retirement without major changes to your lifestyle. Bring your questions and notebook, you’ll want to get every bit of great advice down! Light refreshments will be provided. 301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

ETCETERA

Flower Moon Metaphysical Faire — 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Dublin Roasters Coffee, 1780 N. Market St., Suite A, Frederick. Embrace

Friday Evening - May 17, 2024 | 5:30pm - 8:30pm

NOW ON STAGE!

Tickets are selling FAST! Reserve your seats today!

Carroll Arts Center

the flower moon energy. Psychic mediums, oracle, tarot, jewelry, pottery, crafting, crystals and more.

301-606-3915. kristamva@yahoo.com. Blessing of the Bikes — 10:30 a.m. at Bush Creek Church of the Brethren, 4821A Green Valley Road, Monrovia. Special worship service with Pastor Rod Fry bringing the morning message at 10:30 am. Pastor Fry is the pastor at the Ijamsville United Methodist Church. He is a biker chaplain with the Bible Biker Institute. The Gospel Ridge Bluegrass Band will bring special music during the service. Following worship everyone is invited to the parking lot for a Blessing of the Bikes to be provided by the Not Ashamed Biker Ministry and the Black Sheep Motorcycle Ministry. 301-865-3013.

Aynex Quilting Presentation — 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Join Aynex Mercado, modern art quilter, as she shares her art of quilts of famous places in Frederick County (including libraries!). Her story is inspiring, her quilting state and nationally recognized. You will not be disappointed by this presentation. 18 and older.

301-600-8200. fcpl.org.

exhibits, photography exhibit, lectures about the National Road by historian Bob Savitt, visit the trolley museum at 220 N. Main St., raffles. The museum officially opens fall 2024. Donations accepted. info@nationalroadfoundation.org.

Johnsville Spring Show — 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 11106 Green Valley Road, 11106 Green Valley Road, Union Bridge. Garden Tractor Pull on May 18, music by Mike Kuster on May 19, plus a cake and pie auction. Kettle fried chicken both days.

MUSIC

Mike Kuster In Concert at the Johnsville Ruritan Club Spring Show — 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Johnsville Ruritan Club, 11136 Green Valley Road, Union Bridge. Mike Kuster will play an acoustic solo set at the show. 301-662-3355. mike@mikekuster.net.

Rohrersville Cornet Band Spring Concert — 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Rohrersville Band Hall, 4315 Main St., Rohrersville. Opening its 187th season. Under the joint direction of Bill Hollin and Holly Feather. Selections will include works by Grainger, Safranek, Sousa and an original composition by band member Max Beadle. Included in the mix will be marches, light classical, movie music arranged by band member Mike Horan and familiar tunes from the Big Band Era. Light refreshments at intermission. Admission is free, but donations are gladly accepted. 301-471-9867. ronmoss11@hotmail.com.

Beyond the Garden Gates Tour — 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at 11 gardens in downtown, Frederick. Self-guided tour of 11 gardens in downtown Frederick and Baker Park. Gardens include Historic Mount Olivet, South Frederick Arboretum of the ESL, Federated Charities, Record Street Home, and several private home gardens. Day of tickets can be purchased at City Hall, the tour hospitality center.  $25 advance, $30 day of tour. 301-600-2841. celebratefrederick.com.

J. Robbins with Truth

Tour the Schifferstadt Architectural Museum — 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Schifferstadt Architectural Museum, 1110 Rosemont Ave., Frederick. Tour Frederick’s oldest surviving building with a knowledgeable guide. Now 266 years old, it was the home of Elias and Albertina Brunner, German immigrants who were part of the great migration centuries ago of refugees from oppressed and war ravaged Europe. The home contains the only surviving example of the German five-plate stove that provided clean, safe, energy-efficient home heating.

$8. 301-456-4912. boycerensberger@gmail.com. fredericklandmarks.org.

FESTIVALS

Zachary Smith & The Mardi Gras Kings — 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at St. Anne’s Episcopal Church, 25100 Ridge Road, Damascus. Zachary Smith & The Mardi Gras Kings (FKA the “Dixie Power Trio”) has developed a reputation as the East Coast’s premier “Louisiana variety band.” The four-piece group plays authentic sounding New Orleans jazz, zydeco, Cajun, street parade and Louisiana-style funk. Their music is played on the trumpet, accordion, guitar, bass guitar and rubboard, with vocals. All ages. A reception with refreshments follows the concert. 301-253-2130. office@stannesdamascus.org. stannesdamascus.org.

THEATER

Maryland Iron Festival — 12 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. at Maryland Iron Festival (parking), 6709 Cunningham Falls Park Road, Thurmont. The Catoctin Furnace Historical Society will present the sixth annual Maryland Iron Festival during the weekend of May 18 and 19 in historic Catoctin Furnace village. Blacksmithing; a live iron pour at 1 p.m. Saturday; tours of historic Harriet Chapel; “Feats of Strength” games and challenges; plaster casting activities; an artist and maker market; children’s activities; unique handmade items for sale; activities from the Frederick County Public Libraries and more. 443-463-6437. ecomer@catoctinfurnace.org. catoctinfurnace.org.

National Road Museum Open House — 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at National Road Museum, 214 N. Main St., Boonsboro. Sneak peeks of new

“The Prom” — 2 p.m. at Other Voices Theatre, 244 S Jefferson St., Frederick. “The Prom” follows four Broadway actors lamenting their days of fame, as they travel to the conservative town of Edgewater, Indiana, to help a lesbian student banned from bringing her girlfriend to high school prom. $18.50 to $25. 301-662-3722. administration@othervoicestheatre.org.

Monday May 20

CLASSES

Meditative Dance Movement — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at FAC Art Center, 5 E. Second St., Frederick. Transformative Arts Project. $10 donation. 301-662-4190. artcenter@frederickartscouncil.org. frederickartscouncil.org.

ESL High Beginners Conversation Class — 6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. For adults who want to practice their English to a conversation class hosted by the Literacy

Council of Frederick County. Students will practice their speaking and listening skills with conversations guided by an instructor from the LCFC. Registration is required by the LCFC. 301-600-8200. fcpl.org.

ETCETERA

Let’s Build Something: A Sensory Program for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities — 11 a.m. to noon at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Build structures with a variety of blocks, Legos, gears and Lincoln Logs! We invite all adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities to join us for this fun, sensory event! 301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

Duplicate Bridge Games — noon to 4 p.m. at Church of the Transfiguration, 6909 Maryland Ave., Frederick. Looking for a competitive mind sport? Frederick Bridge Club duplicate games allow you to hone your skills. No membership requirements. If you need a partner, call 240-344-4041 or email lffutrell@ yahoo.com. For general information, call 301676-5656 or email sdobran@comcast.net. $8. 301-676-5656. sdobran@comcast.net. bridgewebs.com/frederick.

Hagerstown Startup Week — 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Hagerstown Community College, 20140 Scholar Drive, Hagerstown. A business conference for dreamers, doers, inventors, makers, entrepreneurs and small business owners. Connect and network with fellow founders, collect resourceful information for your business and learn best practices from industry experts. 240-500-2479. partner@hagerstownstartupweek.com. hagerstownstartupweek.com.

Mondays in Mount Airy — 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at in the Railyard, 3 N. Main St. , Mount Airy. A weekly food truck event designed to support locally owned and operated food trucks as well as the businesses along Downtown Main Street. Mondays through Sept. 30. A variety of menu options with different food trucks participating every week. There will be no event on Memorial Day (May 27), July 29 (MAVFC carnival week) and Labor Day (Sept. 2). The event is organized by Sheri Cates State Farm Agent, Blossom and Basket Boutique, Jessica’s Snowballs and the Town of Mount Airy.

To Be Read: Jeff Shaara — 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Exploration Commons, 50 E. Main St., Westminster. For adults. From the bestselling author Jeff Shaara, comes the story of rising conflict between the super-powers that gripped the world, a global war that almost happened: The Cuban Missile Crisis. Extensively researched and vividly imagined, “The Shadow of War” brings to life the many threads that lead to the building crisis between the Soviet Union and the United States in 1962. Pre-registration required. 443-293-3000. ccpl.librarymarket.com.

HEALTH

Sol Yoga — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Join this free yoga class offered by Sol Yoga. Be sure to wear comfortable clothes. 21 and older. 301-600-8200. fcpl.org.

Tuesday May 21

ETCETERA

Hagerstown Startup Week — 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Hagerstown Community College, 20140 Scholar Drive, Hagerstown. A business conference for dreamers, doers, inventors, makers, entrepreneurs and small business owners. Connect and network with fellow founders, collect resourceful information for your business and learn best practices from industry experts. 240-500-2479. partner@hagerstownstartupweek.com. hagerstownstartupweek.com.

FAMILY

Library Adventure Night: Summer Olympic Games! — 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Urbana Regional Library, 9020 Amelung St., Frederick. Go for gold and celebrate the 2024 Summer Olympic Games at the library! Families are invited to test their skills at Olympic sports, meet-and-greet favorite characters and FCPS teachers, get their boogie on with the Salsa Prince, and kickoff their summer by signing up for a Library card! Food trucks. 301-600-7000.

FESTIVALS

New Windsor Fire Department Carnival — 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. at New Windsor Fire Department Carnival Grounds, 101 High St., New Windsor. Rides, food, games and entertainment. Parade May 22. 410-635-6373. nwfd10.org/content/carnival.

FILM

Bijou Film Screening — 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at FAC Art Center, 5 E. Second St., Frederick. Second, third and fourth Tuesdays of the month. A streamlined curation of films presented by Falling Squares. 301-662-4190. artcenter@frederickartscouncil.org. frederickartscouncil.org.

HEALTH

Senior Fitness: Zumba Gold class — 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Interested in Zumba but want something that is lower intensity? Join us for a Zumba Gold class, a lower intensity fun dance workout. 301-600-8200.

Harmony in Healing: A Monthly Homeopathy Exploration — 4 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. at The Common Market, 927 W. Seventh St., Frederick. Dive deep into the world of natural wellness as we explore the principles of homeopathy, share insights and empower each other on our journey to optimal health. 301-663-3416. aharmon@commonmarket.coop. commonmarket.coop.

MUSIC

An Acoustic Evening with John Hiatt — 7:30 p.m. at Weinberg Center of Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. A master lyricist and satirical storyteller, John Hiatt delivers songs filled with tales of redemption, relationships and surrendering on his own terms. $39-$59. 301-600-2828. bhiller@cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbergcenter.org.

Wednesday May 22

CLASSES

Brushes with History: Inspiring the Personality of Frederick — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Museum of Frederick County History/Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. Features the works of a few of the most notable artists who have worked in Frederick County. With beautiful paintings of the county’s landmarks and natural splendor, our story explores the ways in which the visual arts provided economic opportunity to individuals and communities. As we admire their talents captured on canvas, porcelain, metalware, and other media, we celebrate the role these artists have played in shaping our communities both past and present. $12, $10, $8. 301-663-1188. tonya@frederickhistory.org. frederickhistory.org.

Spring Floral Bouquet — 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kentlands Mansion, 320 Kent Square Road, Gaithersburg. Expert florists guide you through the art of crafting stunning bouquets with the exquisite peony flower. Learn the intricacies of color coordination and arrangement techniques, you leave not only with a gorgeous bouquet but also with the skills to re-create these floral masterpieces at home. All materials provided.

Resident: $72. Nonresident: $75. 301-2586425. kentlands@gaithersburgmd.gov.

ETCETERA

Sensory Program for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities: A Day in the Life of a Firefighter — 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville. Join us as we hear about the day in the life of a firefighter and look at their truck as well. 18 and older. 301-600-8200. fcpl.org.

FESTIVALS

New Windsor Fire Department Carnival — 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. at New Windsor Fire Department Carnival Grounds, 101 High St., New Windsor. Rides, food, games and entertainment. Parade May 22. 410-635-6373. nwfd10.org/content/carnival.

Thursday May 23

CLASSES

Brushes with History: Inspiring the Personality of Frederick — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Museum of Frederick County History/Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. Features the works of a few of the most notable artists who have worked in Frederick County. With beautiful paintings of the county’s landmarks and natural splendor, our story explores the ways in which the visual arts provided economic opportunity to individuals and communities. As we admire their talents captured on canvas, porcelain, metalware, and other media, we celebrate the role these artists have played in shaping our communities both past and present. $12, $10, $8. 301-663-1188. tonya@frederickhistory.org. frederickhistory.org.

Free Virtual Zoom Family History Lecture

“Research Cousins: Historic Preservation and Genealogy” — 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Zoom, . Presented by Mary Mannix, FCPL Maryland Room Manager. While completely different disciplines, historic preservation uses many genealogy methodologies. Researching properties and communities can add richness to any genealogy venture.  And, historic preservation often leads to the creation of documents that can assist the family historian in tracking their ancestors’ built environments. Learn how to access these materials and what to expect to glean from them. A basic understanding of historic preservation laws will also be discussed. 18 and older. Contact to get Zoom link. 240-818-1938. wrsparks54@hotmail.com.

Civil War Meeting and Talk by Robert O’Neill — 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Homewood Suites, 1650 Pullman Lane, Hagerstown. The Hagerstown Civil War Round Table will feature a talk by Robert O’Neill on the cavalry battles of Aldie, Middleburg and Upperville. Dinner is at 6:30 p.m., open to nonmembers as well as members ($31, reservations required by May 16), and the talk is at 7:30 p.m. ($5 for non-members), both payable at the meeting. $5. 240-625-4216. hagerstowncwrt1956@gmail.com.

ETCETERA

Duplicate Bridge Games — noon to 4 p.m. at Church of the Transfiguration, 6909 Maryland Ave., Frederick. Looking for a competitive mind sport? Frederick Bridge Club duplicate games allow you to hone your skills. No membership requirements. If you need a partner, call 240-344-4041 or email lffutrell@yahoo.com. For general information, call 301-676-5656 or email sdobran@comcast.net.

$8. 301-676-5656. sdobran@comcast.net. bridgewebs.com/frederick.

Lip Sync 2024 — Annual Fundraiser for SHIP — 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Attaboy Barrel House, 24 S. Wisner St., Suite 110, Frederick. We’re encouraging teams to come together for a night filled with fun, creativity and support from our community to help each of our students reach their goals. Each team is raising funds to continue to support a student’s success so they’re one step closer to no longer being homeless. Each $2 donation towards your preferred team is a vote during the event. $55. shipfrederick.com.

Totally Teen Time: Tile Coasters — 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Make and decorate your own coaster using a ceramic tile! This program is recommended for teens in grades 6 through 12. 301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

FESTIVALS

Senior Resource and Education Fair — 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Frederick Community College: Athletic Center, 7932 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. Presented by SOAR in partnership with Aging Network Alliance and FCC. No registration

is required. Free lunch for the first 200 attendees. 240-575-9665. seniorfair@soarfrederick.org. soarfrederick.org.

New Windsor Fire Department Carnival — 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. at New Windsor Fire Department Carnival Grounds, 101 High St., New Windsor. Rides, food, games and entertainment. Parade May 22. 410-635-6373. nwfd10.org/content/carnival.

FILM

Classic Movie Series: “Seabiscuit” (2003) — 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Weinberg Center of Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick. True story of the undersized Depression-era racehorse whose victories lifted not only the spirits of the team behind it but also those of their nation. Category: Drama, History, Sport. Cast: Tobey Maguire, Jeff Bridges, Elizabeth Banks. $5-$7. 301-600-2828. bhiller@cityoffrederickmd.gov. weinbercenter.org.

MUSIC

Alive@Five Happy Hour Concert Series: Quantum Leap — 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Carroll Creek Amphitheater, Frederick. Eclectic ‘80s. Craft beverages and food available by local breweries, distilleries and food trucks. 21 and older, with ID. Concert series continues through Oct. 3. $6 per person. 301-698-8118. downtownfrederick.org.

Live Jazz at the Cocktail Lab — 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Tenth Ward Distilling Co., 55 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Get swanky with us every Thursday night for live jazz and your favorite craft cocktails. 21 and older. 301-233-4817. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. tenthwarddistilling.com.

Friday May 24

CLASSES

Brushes with History: Inspiring the Personality of Frederick — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Museum of Frederick County History/Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. Features the works of a few of the most notable artists who have worked in Frederick County. With beautiful paintings of the county’s landmarks and natural splendor, our story explores the ways in which the visual arts provided economic opportunity to individuals and communities. As we admire their talents captured on canvas, porcelain, metalware, and other media, we celebrate the role these artists have played in shaping our communities both past and present. $12, $10, $8. 301-663-1188. tonya@frederickhistory.org. frederickhistory.org.

ETCETERA

HHS Mobile Health Unit, Outreach Team and Program Staff Visit — 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Lucas Village, 111 Pennsylvania Ave., Frederick. Program staff will be bringing health services, food distribution, and access to learn more about other HHS programs (like energy assistance) to various neighborhoods throughout the Frederick community. Food distribution begins at noon, while supplies last. 240-409-9005. mgrogan@cityoffrederickmd.gov.

cityoffrederickmd.gov.

FESTIVALS

Great Boonsboro Rescue Company Carnival — 4:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Shafer Park, 37 Park Drive, Boonsboro. Continues nightly through Saturday, June 1. This fundraising event includes the Spectacular Reithoffer Midway, nightly entertainment and food. Entertainment at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. May 24, Stoney Creek Bluegrass Band; May 25, Truck Stop Burritos; May 26, Jeff Taulton and The Brandy Stills Band; May 27, Dean Crawford and The Dunns River Band; May 28, Great Train Robbery (7 and 9 p.m.); May 30, Reagan Years!; May 31, The Cruisers, fireworks at 10:30 PM; June 1, Brickyard Road. boonsbororescue.com.

New Windsor Fire Department Carnival — 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. at New Windsor Fire Department Carnival Grounds, 101 High St., New Windsor. Rides, food, games and entertainment. Parade May 22. 410-635-6373. nwfd10.org/content/carnival.

MUSIC

Bluegrass Gospel Live Band Sing-along — 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at New Beginning Nazarene Church, 12350 Jesse Smith Road, Mount Airy. The First Fruits band of Mount Airy will be playing bluegrass gospel songs at New Beginning Nazarene Church. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Many old-time hymns in a singalong format. 240-409-2572. uddermanrichard@gmail.com.

Live Music at the Cocktail Lab — 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Tenth Ward Distilling Co., 55 E. Patrick St., Frederick. Every Friday in the Cocktail Lab we’ll be servin’ up our deliciously wild concoctions and some sweet tunes to get your weekend started off right. 21 and older. 301-233-4817. monica@tenthwarddistilling.com. tenthwarddistilling.com.

THEATER

Murder Mystery Party — 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Dutch’s Daughter Restaurant, 581 Himes Ave., Frederick. Whodunnit for Hire and Dutch’s Daughter team up to bring you “Wanted Dead or Alive,” the wild west themed murder mystery party. Multiple dates from which to choose. Price includes three course dinner with entree options, mystery, tax and gratuity. https://ddmysteries.eventbrite.com. 21 and older.

$85. 410-549-2722. murdermysterycompany@gmail.cm. ddmysteries.eventbrite.com.

“The Prom” — 8 p.m. at Other Voices Theatre, 244 S Jefferson St., Frederick. “The Prom” follows four Broadway actors lamenting their days of fame, as they travel to the conservative town of Edgewater, Indiana, to help a lesbian student banned from bringing her girlfriend to high school prom. $18.50 to $25. 301-662-3722. administration@othervoicestheatre.org.

Saturday May 25

CLASSES

Growing Herbs Here & There — 10 a.m. to noon at University of Maryland Extension Office, 330 Montevue Lane, Frederick. Learn

about the variety of both annual & perennial herbs you can grow in-ground and/or in containers. See how you can plant an herb garden as well as merge herb plantings into your flower and vegetable beds. Take a look at how herbs are grown throughout our demonstration garden, including in our clever herb spiral. Family-friendly. 301-600-1596. strice@umd.edu.

Brushes with History: Inspiring the Personality of Frederick — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Museum of Frederick County History/Heritage Frederick, 24 E. Church St., Frederick. Features the works of a few of the most notable artists who have worked in Frederick County. With beautiful paintings of the county’s landmarks and natural splendor, our story explores the ways in which the visual arts provided economic opportunity to individuals and communities. As we admire their talents captured on canvas, porcelain, metalware, and other media, we celebrate the role these artists have played in shaping our communities both past and present.

$12, $10, $8. 301-663-1188. tonya@frederickhistory.org. frederickhistory.org.

ETCETERA

Myersville Farmers Market — 9 a.m. to noon at Municipal parking lot, 301 Main St., Myersville. Saturdays through Oct. 26. myersvillefarmersmarket.com.

Tour the Schifferstadt Architectural Museum — 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Schifferstadt Architectural Museum, 1110 Rosemont Ave., Frederick. Tour Frederick’s oldest surviving building with a knowledgeable guide. Now 266 years old, it was the home of Elias and Albertina Brunner, German immigrants who were part of the great migration centuries ago of refugees from oppressed and war ravaged Europe. The home contains the only surviving example of the German five-plate stove that provided clean, safe, energy-efficient home heating.

$8. 301-456-4912. boycerensberger@gmail.com. fredericklandmarks.org.

Ghost Tours of Historic Frederick — 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Brewer’s Alley Restaurant and Brewery, 124 N. Market St., Frederick. Journey through Frederick’s gruesome and bloody past. Nearly 300 years of war, executions and revenge. True documented stories of the paranormal with Maryland’s oldest operating Ghost Tour. Uncover political savvy and defiant citizens, patriots from the Revolutionary War, beckoning soldiers from the Civil War. Reservations recommended.

$16. 301-668-8922. info@marylandghosttours.com. marylandghosttours.com.

FAMILY

Read with a Dog — 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Brunswick Branch Library, 915 N. Maple Ave., Brunswick. Practice reading to a furry friend. For kids. 301-600-7250. frederick.librarycalendar.com.

FESTIVALS

Great Boonsboro Rescue Company Carnival — 4:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Shafer Park, 37 Park Drive, Boonsboro. Continues nightly

through Saturday, June 1. This fundraising event includes the Spectacular Reithoffer Midway, nightly entertainment and food. Entertainment at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. May 24, Stoney Creek Bluegrass Band; May 25, Truck Stop Burritos; May 26, Jeff Taulton and The Brandy Stills Band; May 27, Dean Crawford and The Dunns River Band; May 28, Great Train Robbery (7 and 9 p.m.); May 30, Reagan Years!; May 31, The Cruisers, fireworks at 10:30 PM; June 1, Brickyard Road. boonsbororescue.com.

New Windsor Fire Department Carnival — 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. at New Windsor Fire Department Carnival Grounds, 101 High St., New Windsor. Rides, food, games and entertainment. Parade May 22. 410-635-6373. nwfd10.org/content/carnival.

THEATER

“The Prom” — 8 p.m. at Other Voices Theatre, 244 S Jefferson St., Frederick. “The Prom” follows four Broadway actors lamenting their days of fame, as they travel to the conservative town of Edgewater, Indiana, to help a lesbian student banned from bringing her girlfriend to high school prom. $18.50 to $25. 301-662-3722. administration@othervoicestheatre.org. showtix4u.com/event-details/82744.

Thurmont Main Street Farmers Market — 9 a.m. to noon at Thurmont Community Park, 21 Frederick Road, Thurmont. Every Saturday through Sept. 28. Home-made, home-grown. One of the largest farmers markets in Frederick County.  240-626-9980. vgrinder@thurmontstaff.com. thurmontmainstreet.com.

Sunday May 26

ETCETERA

Tour the Schifferstadt Architectural Museum — 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Schifferstadt Architectural Museum, 1110 Rosemont Ave., Frederick. Tour Frederick’s oldest surviving building with a knowledgeable guide. Now 266 years old, it was the home of Elias and Albertina Brunner, German immigrants who were part of the great migration centuries ago of refugees from oppressed and war ravaged Europe. The home contains the only surviving example of the German five-plate stove that provided clean, safe, energy-efficient home heating. $8. 301-456-4912. boycerensberger@gmail.com. fredericklandmarks.org.

Mount Olivet Cemetery History & Mystery

Tour — 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Mount Olivet Cemetery, 515 S. Market St., Frederick. Discover Frederick’s Past as we navigate through the labyrinth of graves, crypts and monuments. One of Maryland’s largest and most beautiful cemeteries. Final resting place of Francis Scott Key; Maryland’s first governor, Thomas Johnson; and Civil War heroine Barbara Fritchie. Learn about the cemetery’s origin, tombstone design, grave robbing, mass graves; stops at other distinctive burial plots including the Key Memorial Chapel. Reservations required.

$16 for adults. 301-668-8922. Info@marylandghosttours.com. marylandghosttours.com.

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LIFETIME NO-CLOG WARRANTY

MADE ONSITE SPECIFICALLY FOR YOUR HOME THE ONLY ONE-PIECE SEAMLESS DEBRIS SHEDDING GUTTER SYSTEM. SCRATCHGUARD® PAINT FINISH

*All participants who attend an estimated 60-90-minute in-home product consultation will receive a $25 Visa card. Retail value is $25. O er sponsored by Leafguard Holdings Inc. Limit one per household. Company procures, sells, and installs seamless gutter protection. This o er is valid for homeowners over 18 years of age. If married or involved with a life partner, both cohabitating persons must attend and complete presentation together. Participants must have a photo ID and be legally able to enter into a contract. The following persons are not eligible for this o er: employees of Company or a liated companies or entities, their immediate family members, previous participants in a Company in-home consultation within the past 12 months and all current and former Company customers. Card may not be extended, transferred, or substituted except that Company may substitute a gift of equal or greater value if it deems it necessary. Card will be mailed to the participant via rst class United States Mail within 10 days of receipt of the promotion form. Not valid in conjunction with any other promotion or discount of any kind. O er not sponsored and is subject to change without notice prior to reservation. O er not available in the states of CA, IN, PA and MI. Expires 5/31/24.